Region
East Asia
West’s Diplomacy Trumps China Fear
China and Russia were both worried about Western military action in Libya. So why didn’t they veto it when they had the chance?
China’s Military Self-Assurance
The latest defence white paper suggests an increasing willingness to use a modernizing military to settle diplomatic disputes.
The Struggle for a New Japan
Naoto Kan has shown during the ongoing crisis his determination for a more open style of government in Japan. It won’t be easy for him.
Japan’s Political Tremors
The earthquake and tsunami were preceded by major tremors in the country’s political system. Their continuation will help shape post-disaster Japan.
Why Fukushima Isn’t Like Chernobyl
Despite media hype about the radiation dangers, the Fukushima nuclear crisis won’t end like Chernobyl, Alexander Sich tells The Diplomat.
Why North Korea Doesn’t Engage
Pyongyang isn’t interested in genuine talks, Richard Bush tells The Diplomat. Kim Jong-il is likely just stalling while the country perfects a nuclear weapon.
Lessons for Japan From Kobe Quake
There was plenty to learn after the Great Hanshin earthquake, David Edgington tells The Diplomat. Disaster response is the better for it.
Is China Backing Indian Insurgents?
The arrest in January of a Chinese spy who allegedly met insurgents in the northeast of the country may suggest a broader effort to destabilize India.
Asia Makes Life Tough for IAEA
Most eyes may now be on the nuclear crisis in Japan. But North Korean defiance and Iran’s stalling remain the IAEA’s big headaches.
Why the US and China Woo Mongolia
An economic minnow but a geographic titan, Mongolia is of growing strategic interest to both the US and China, writes J Berkshire Miller.
Getting Real About Taiwan
Bartering Taiwan for better ties with China is a mistake. Ambitious powers see such concessions as an appetizer, not dessert.
