US decline is increasingly evident in Indo-Pacific in Lowy Institute report
We can see a clear strategic intention of the West, especially the US, to create divisions among Asian countries. It thereby seeks to tear Asia apart through strategic interventions. For example, Washington has been attempting to jeopardize regional cooperation in East Asia and the framework of ASEAN Plus Three.
Visits to Yasukuni shrine don't necessarily indicate militaristic trend in Japan
Paying visits to the Yasukuni Shrine is more of a symbol to show Japanese politicians' right-wing tendencies. These moves are a tool to boost domestic morale, unite the Japanese people and increase these politicians' support rate.
South Asian nations not convinced by empty US promises
US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun's visit to South Asia is an attempt to force regional countries to take sides by disrupting the influence of the BRI in the region. Its prospect is dim and South Asian countries will not agree.
Kiwi confidence in governance high; bilateral China ties to boost
We expect that the Ardern administration will continue to persist with the judiciousness to steer its mutually beneficial collaboration and partnership with China to a new height.
National interests drive Seoul, Washington apart
The US is exerting pressure on South Korea from all sides. It is not in South Korea's national interests to tie itself entirely to the US chariot.
Japan dumping nuclear contaminated water into ocean sparks global outrage
Japan's decision to dump 1 million tons of nuclear waste water into the ocean will damage people's health and harm its global image – the latter is detrimental to investment.
Upcoming Myanmar elections a litmus test for NLD's economic policies, ruling ability
The general election is a test of Myanmar's political transition and economic and social development. It is also a crucial litmus test of the NLD's ability to rule properly.
India to invite trouble playing Taiwan card
India playing the Taiwan card is impairing its own interests. Some Indian strategists, think tanks and media outlets are forcing China to take countermeasures. The Indian government has so far remained silent on the fire-playing by some Indians. If India's nationalists move forward by fanning the Taiwan flame, what awaits them will be insurgence and chaos in its northeast.
Canberra's McCarthyism reaches new heights in 'loyalty test' for Chinese Australians
Canberra is constantly suspicious of imaginary threats, ceaselessly pointing an accusatory finger at China and the Chinese community in Australia. This will ultimately “boomerang” to shoot Australia in its own foot.
Australia overestimates its influence to 'counter China' in Southeast Asia
If Australia's true aim is to “counter” China by increasing input into Southeast Asia, it has overestimated itself. Countries in the region know quite well which partner offers more in terms of development. Australia's influence in the region will fail to improve to anything more than it is now.
Western focus on Myanmar election shifts to whether incumbent can hold on to power
After the election, the trajectory of China-Myanmar relations will not change much no matter what the election result is. China will always be a trusted partner of Myanmar and is set to play a constructive role in Myanmar's development and peace process.
Australia needs Southeast Asia for market, not politics
Regardless of economics, trade or aid, competition among different powers is unavoidable. Positive competition will promote better cooperation modes and amplify the effect of aid. Vicious competition hinders regional development and prosperity. Southeast Asia should not become a place for games between powers which would make them into sacrificial pawns.
Suga's first diplomatic trip to Southeast Asia masks larger agenda
In the context of the current epidemic and economic conditions, Japan cannot easily replace China's position in ASEAN. Nor can it achieve expected results only through Suga's visit to Southeast Asia.
New generation of Japanese politicians needs vigilant watching
Japan's new generation of politicians is becoming more and more influential. This not only is related to the future development of Japan's internal affairs, but also may influence new factors for how Japan relates with its neighboring countries. After World War II, generations of Japanese political figures have had differing relations with China with many twists and turns. The influence of the new generation of politicians cannot be underestimated in terms of where they will take Japan's future policies – particularly on China.
Australia's China-bashing is self-hurting
Diplomats are said to be positive peace makers rather than malevolent warmongers. Instead of safeguarding Australia's own national interest, Aussie Ambassador to US Arthur Sinodinos seems to be more dedicated to serving US agenda against China.
Time for China to toughen up on insincere India
India has absolutely no sincerity in resolving border disputes. Its ultimate goal is to make China handle the issues according to India's will.
Philippines unlikely to turn back on China
Would the Philippines really take sides between China and US? Highly unlikely. US incites the Philippines to be more high-profile over disputes with China, yet US-Philippines alliance is stuck in a predicament without any hope of improving.
Why Maldives security deal stirs India's senses
India, the most powerful country at the Indian Ocean, regards China's existence as a threat. Interestingly by contrast, most countries which are weaker than India in the region regard China as a constructive force and actively expand cooperation with it.