Former Japanese Premier Could Return to Power
Concerns over the economy and national security could propel Shinzō Abe to power.
East Asia
Chinese Military Progress Can Worsen Sea Disputes
Chinese military modernization could undermine maritime conflict resolution efforts.
Alliance Looks East: NATO’s Pacific Future
NATO’s future as an actor in Asia is a natural extension of its post Cold War evolution.
Navy to Invite China to Pacific Rim Exercise
Joint American-Chinese naval exercises could defuse tension, but there are some risks.
China Seen Wipping Up Anti-Japan Demonstrations
The party seems to allow protests to put pressure on Japan in an island dispute.
Whatever Wen Says, China’s Economy Not “On Target”
State policies to boost internal demand to sustain economic growth appear to be failing.
Putin Urges More Liberal Trade, Russians Skeptical
Russians are skeptical of their president’s plans to open borders for international trade.
China’s Shadow Looms Over Clinton’s Asian Trip
The secretary’s visits highlight the strategic competition underway in East Asia.
Sino-German Relationship Could Thwart American Pivot
A Eurasian continental alliance could frustrate America’s “pivot” to East Asia.
Banking Scandal Exposes Split in Vietnam Leadership
The future of market reforms could hinge on the outcome of a political divide.
Japan’s Noda to Call Snap Election in November
The prime minister’s Democratic Party is unpopular but he has to call elections anyway.
Nationalism Fuels East Asian Island Disputes
Political ineptitude can cause otherwise minor territorial disputes to spin out of control.
Kim’s Uncle May Have Plotted to Oust Army Chief
The enigmatic Jang Sung-taek may benefit the most from Ri Yong-ho’s retirement.
Japanese-South Korean Relations on the Rocks
An island dispute resurfaces after South Korea delays implementation of an intelligence-sharing agreement with Japan.
A New Air Force Procurement Strategy for Taiwan
Reducing its F-16 buys from the Americans makes sense for Taiwan.