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The Debate
The Debate is our home for the best opinions from around Asia. Whether it is negotiating with Iran, responding to North Korean provocations, discussing Japan's looming demographic issues, or considering the new balance of power in the Asia-Pacific, some of the region's leading thinkers offer their take.
What Does ‘Free and Open’ Really Mean for the Indo-Pacific?
By Ken Weisbrode
The phrase is often read as code for “U.S.-aligned,” but what does it really mean?
What Vietnam’s President Sought to Achieve at the 76th UNGA
By Le Dinh Tinh
As a mid-level power that is deeply integrated into global supply chains, Vietnam has a strong interest in the future of global multilateralism.
Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy Needs to Focus More on India
By Sana Hashmi
Five years into the NSP, it’s time to elevate India on Taiwan’s diplomatic agenda.
Revitalizing US Diplomatic Engagement With Central Asia
By Richard E. Hoagland and Michael S. Repass
The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan underscores the need for an enhanced diplomatic approach to the region.
Bringing Clean Air to 4 Billion People in Asia
By Kaoru Akahoshi and Eric Zusman
To tackle air pollution, we need solutions that break down boundaries - between countries, regions, and diverse stakeholders.
UK-ASEAN Dialogue Partnership Paves Way to Potential Future Trade Accord
By Andrew Hood and Bob Savic
Since its exit from the European Union, London has moved swiftly to deepen its relationship with a fast-growing region.
China, Wolf Warrior Diplomacy and Taiwan
By KODA Yoji
Beijing’s recalcitrance is ultimately going to be unsustainable.
The US Should Support South Korea’s Nuclear Submarine Aspirations
By Jihoon Yu and Erik French
After offering SSNs to Australia, it’s time to extend similar support to South Korea.
How Asia Can Achieve a Just Energy Transition in a Post-COVID World
By Nithi Nesadurai and Hang Dao
A just transition to renewable energy is not just good for the environment, it’s great for the economy, too.
Pakistan’s Shameful Glee at the Taliban’s Rise
By Mohsin Dawar
An elected representative of North Waziristan urges the Pakistani government to confront the reality of what the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan will mean for Pakistan.
19 Months Into the Pandemic, China Is Still Shutting Out US Students
By Ethan McAndrews, Anthony Edwards, and Hannah Sorenson
Beijing’s lack of foreign student reciprocity poses a major threat to the long-term future of the China-U.S. relationship.
The US Can’t Blame Pakistan for Its Failure in Afghanistan
By Khawaja Akbar
Pakistan was a factor but by no means the most significant one in the Taliban’s rapid takeover.