September 27, 2008
Taiwan’s Defense Hobbled by U.S. Arms "Freeze"
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #2088)
As Taiwan engages Beijing directly with new initiatives across the Taiwan Strait, its leaders now lack the single most important asset they need to negotiate ...
September 26, 2008
Chinese Investment (Mostly) Welcome
By Derek Scissors Ph.D.
(WebMemo #2081)
If transparency can be achieved, China’s outward investment could be a large net positive for business, reintroducing capital otherwise tucked away. Without transparency, the world ...
September 26, 2008
U.S. Strategy Must Address Afghan-Pakistan Tension
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #2087)
Heightening tensions between U.S. and Pakistani forces along the Afghan-Pakistani border threaten to play into al-Qaeda’s agenda of fueling anti-American sentiment among the Pakistani population ...
September 24, 2008
Under Aso, Prospects Bright for U.S.-Japan Strategic Relationship, but Challenges Remain
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #2078)
On September 24, Taro Aso became the new Japanese prime minister and the country's fourth ruler in three years. Aso’s foreign policy views are more ...
September 23, 2008
China: Wealthy State, Strong Army—and a Powerful Party
By John J. Tkacik
(WebMemo #2073)
Unless the next president of the United States adopts greater skepticism towards China’s future intentions; reaffirms America’s commitment to like minded economic, political, and security ...
September 15, 2008
Mongolia's Current Political Situation: Implications for the OSCE
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(Heritage Lecture #1098)
An independent Mongolia is the best way to help keep China and Russia apart, and the best way to ensure that Mongolia’s two neighbors respect ...
September 11, 2008
Planning for a North Korea without Kim Jong-il
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #2059)
Rumors that Kim Jong-il suffered a stroke have triggered concerns over the ramifications of instability and regime change in North Korea, particularly in regards to ...
September 9, 2008
U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Deal: A Sprint to the Finish
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #2054)
The U.S.-India civil nuclear deal cleared its toughest international hurdle this past weekend when the 45-nation Nuclear Supplier’s Group developed a consensus on approving civilian ...
September 4, 2008
Olympic Invasion: China, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Russia's Aggression
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #2048)
In light of President Hu Jintao's assertion immediately after Russia's invasion of Georgia that Beijing and Moscow are "advancing across the board precisely in accordance ...
September 3, 2008
Fukuda's Resignation Reflects Japan's Political Gridlock
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #2045)
Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda's abrupt resignation has again thrown Japan’s political landscape into uncertainty.
August 29, 2008
Industry v. Environment: China May Choke on Its Own Growth
By Derek Scissors, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #2039)
The People’s Republic of China (PRC) must improve its environment in order to sustain growth. The Chinese economy is far more efficient than it was ...
August 29, 2008
Beijing's Olympic Message: China Will Do What It Wants
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #2040)
The most frightening aspect of China’s approach to the Olympics was that the communist country did not care what foreigners thought. The message of the ...
August 21, 2008
People, Growth, And Reform: China's Uncertain Future
By Derek Scissors, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #2032)
With the wrong policies, the much-heralded era of Chinese economic leadership could stop almost before it starts.
August 14, 2008
Weighing Chinese Manufacturing Strength
By Derek Scissors, Ph.D.
(WebMemo #2023)
On August 10, The Financial Times reported a forecast by Global Insight projecting that the People's Republic of China would surpass the U.S. in 2009 ...
August 7, 2008
Avoiding Return to Military Rule in Pakistan
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #2015)
The announcement by Pakistan’s civilian government that it will pursue impeachment proceedings against President Pervez Musharraf could help end months of political paralysis in the ...
July 28, 2008
Prime Minister Gilani Visit: Shoring up Democratic Pakistan to Deal with Terrorist Challenge
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #2005)
Pakistani Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani’s visit to Washington this week occurs at a time when Pakistan faces political and economic uncertainty and a rising ...
July 24, 2008
India Wins Big Bet on U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Deal
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #2002)
In a vote Tuesday, the Singh government maintained the confidence of the Indian parliament by a surprisingly comfortable margin, clearing the way for the landmark ...
July 17, 2008
Indonesia Holds Up ASEAN Charter Ratification for Burmese People
By Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1999)
Legislators in Indonesia are holding out not for political or personal gain but to fight for the rights of one of their neighbors. Their most ...
July 16, 2008
North Korea Denuclearization Requires Rigorous Verification System
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1996)
Pyongyang cannot be allowed to play a nation-wide shell game on its nuclear programs. The U.S. must learn from the shortcomings of the 1994 Agreed ...
July 15, 2008
Combating Terrorism in Pakistan: Going on the Offensive
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1991)
Pakistan’s lack of an effective strategy against al-Qaeda militants is directly undermining coalition efforts in Afghanistan.
June 30, 2008
Transforming the U.S.-South Korean Alliance
By Bruce Klingner
(Backgrounder #2155)
The U.S.-South Korea security alliance must evolve to respond to a changing threat environment, an evolving U.S. military strategy, and South Korea’s desire to assume ...
June 26, 2008
Seismic Suppression: Chinese Censorship After the Sichuan Earthquake
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1971)
Those who thought that the devastating Sichuan earthquake of May 12 brought out the best in the Chinese government should think again.
June 26, 2008
Limited Progress on North Korean Denuclearization: Critical Questions Lie Ahead
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1974)
Pyongyang's June 26 delivery of a data declaration regarding its nuclear weapons programs and the anticipated destruction of the cooling tower at the Yongbyon nuclear ...
June 26, 2008
The U.S. Position in Asia: Stronger Than Ever
By The Honorable Condoleezza Rice
(Heritage Lecture #1091)
The rise of Asia is a profound geopolitical trend that is reshaping our world today, and the United States is in a stronger position in ...
June 19, 2008
Taiwan's "Unsettled" International Status: Preserving U.S. Options in the Pacific
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(Backgrounder #2146)
The U.S. should publicly reaffirm that Taiwan's sovereignty is unsettled. Current U.S.-China relations make it impossible to declare that Taiwan is a state, but nothing ...
June 19, 2008
Executive Summary: Taiwan's "Unsettled" International Status: Preserving U.S. Options in the Pacific
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(Executive Summary #2146)
The U.S. should publicly reaffirm that Taiwan's sovereignty is unsettled. Current U.S.-China relations make it impossible to declare that Taiwan is a state, but nothing ...
May 30, 2008
Executive Summary: The Proposed Iran-Pakistan-India Gas Pipeline: An Unacceptable Risk to Regional Security
By Ariel Cohen, Ph.D., Lisa Curtis, and Owen Graham
(Executive Summary #2139)
The Iran–Pakistan–India pipeline would be contrary to U.S. strategic interests, would destabilize the Persian Gulf, and would strengthen Russia’s grip over Central Asia, decreasing both ...
May 30, 2008
The Proposed Iran-Pakistan-India Gas Pipeline: An Unacceptable Risk to Regional Security
By Ariel Cohen, Ph.D., Lisa Curtis, and Owen Graham
(Backgrounder #2139)
The Iran–Pakistan–India pipeline would be contrary to U.S. strategic interests, would destabilize the Persian Gulf, and would strengthen Russia’s grip over Central Asia, decreasing both ...
May 21, 2008
Preserving Coalition Government Key to U.S. Objectives in Pakistan
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1935)
A power struggle is underway between Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-chairman (and widower of Benazir Bhutto) Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistan Muslim League/Nawaz (PML/N) leader Nawaz ...
May 8, 2008
China's Undervalued Currency Benefits Americans
By Ambassador Terry Miller
(WebMemo #1919)
Politicians looking for quick fixes to perceived U.S. economic ills have focused yet again on trade. The China Currency Manipulation Act of 2008 was introduced ...
May 2, 2008
Magnequench: CFIUS and China's Thirst for U.S. Defense Technology
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1913)
One of Senator Hillary Clinton's Asia policy advisers quit her presidential campaign several days ago, complaining that the candidate was engaging in "gratuitous China bashing." ...
April 30, 2008
Petraeus Hearing Should Focus on Three Fronts, One Long War
By James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., and Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1908)
During the upcoming confirmation hearings, senators from both sides of the aisle should make clear to the incoming the U.S. Central Command commander that winning ...
April 29, 2008
Playing "Whack-a-Mole" with North Korea
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1905)
The U.S. intelligence community's revelation that North Korea was helping Syria to build a nuclear reactor "not intended for peaceful purposes" after seven months of ...
April 28, 2008
Playing with Fire in Indonesia
By Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1902)
Indonesia is an extraordinarily resilient society. Its tolerant culture, religious traditions, and diversity cannot be easily subverted. Ample proof resides in what has proven a ...
April 17, 2008
The War in Afghanistan: More Help Needed
By James Phillips and Lisa Curtis
(Backgrounder #2124)
Greater international support is needed to secure and stabilize Afghanistan, a crucial front in the global war on terrorism. The February 18 Pakistani election provides ...
April 15, 2008
Mr. Lee Comes to Washington
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1889)
South Korean President Lee Myung-bak’s April 15, 2008, trip to the U.S. is a valuable opportunity to affirm the strategic importance of the U.S.–South Korea ...
April 1, 2008
New South Korean President Brings Conservative Policy Change
By Bruce Klingner
(Backgrounder #2120)
Lee Myung-bak’s pro-market economic principles, understanding of regional threats, and willingness to impose conditionality in South Korea’s engagement policy are more in line with U.S. ...
March 24, 2008
Taiwan's Elections: Sea Change in the Strait
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1865)
Now that Taipei promises to make peace with Beijing, Washington must move quickly to rebuild U.S. trade and security ties with Taiwan.
March 20, 2008
China's Expanding Global Influence: Foreign Policy Goals, Practices, and Tools
By Lisa Curtis
(Testimony )
China is expanding its diplomatic and economic activity in South Asia as part of an overall effort to enhance its global influence.
March 18, 2008
With Repression in Tibet, Rethink Olympics
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1858)
Unofficial calls for a general boycott of China’s Olympics have gotten Beijing’s attention, but Beijing remains confident that Hollywood celebrities are neither serious about nor ...
March 18, 2008
Supporting Our South Korean Ally and Enhancing Defense Cooperation
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1859)
Legislation pending in Congress would facilitate foreign military sales to South Korea.
March 14, 2008
Hong Kong in a Box
By Harvey Feldman
(WebMemo #1854)
To revive the energy and optimism that made Hong Kong unique, China must grant it more political freedoms.
March 14, 2008
Off the Rails in the Philippines
By Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1856)
A scandal in the Philippines has the potential to become a constitutional crisis.
February 22, 2008
Satellite Shootdown Was a Necessary Operation
By Baker Spring
(WebMemo #1823)
The Bush Administration made an appropriate executive decision to protect human life, property, and the environment.
February 18, 2008
Pakistan: Historic Election Reinforces Democracy
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1819)
Washington should be prepared to work with the new civilian government and recognize that President Musharraf’s role in governing the country is likely to diminish. ...
February 15, 2008
U.S.–Pakistan Relations: Assassination, Instability, and the Future of U.S. Policy
By Lisa Curtis
(Heritage Lecture #1059)
The dramatic events in Pakistan during the last 10 months, including the assassination of two-time Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, cast doubt on the future stability ...
February 8, 2008
Trojan Dragon: China's Cyber Threat
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(Backgrounder #2106)
"Chinese espionage activities in the United States...comprise the single greatest risk to the security of American technologies," according to the U.S.–China Economic and Security Review ...
February 8, 2008
Executive Summary: Trojan Dragon: China's Cyber Threat
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(Executive Summary #2106)
"Chinese espionage activities in the United States...comprise the single greatest risk to the security of American technologies," according to the U.S.–China Economic and Security Review ...
January 29, 2008
Enabling ASEAN's Economic Vision
By Walter Lohman and Anthony B. Kim
(Backgrounder #2101)
Enhancing economic freedom is at the heart of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' economic vision. By demonstrating serious, sustained interest in ASEAN's economic life, ...
January 29, 2008
Executive Summary: Enabling ASEAN's Economic Vision
By Walter Lohman and Anthony B. Kim
(Executive Summary #2101)
Enhancing economic freedom is at the heart of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' economic vision. By demonstrating serious, sustained interest in ASEAN's economic life, ...
January 26, 2008
Congress Should Withhold Funds from the U.N. Development Program
By Brett D. Schaefer and Steven Groves
(WebMemo #1783)
A new Senate report confirms the serious problems plaguing UN activities in North Korea.
January 24, 2008
Securing American Interests in Japan's Uncharted Political Waters
By Bruce Klingner
(Backgrounder #2100)
The United States should encourage Japan to maintain course on adopting a stronger security presence and implementing the necessary legal and constitutional changes to do ...
January 15, 2008
Advancing Freedom in Burma
By Steven Groves
(Backgrounder #2099)
The United States should lead a broad international effort to isolate the Burmese junta economically, militarily, and diplomatically by persistently placing the matter of Burma ...
January 10, 2008
North Korea: Clouds Block the Sunshine at the Six-Party Talks
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1771)
The U.S. and its allies must be resolute on insisting that North Korea comply with its commitment to denuclearize.
December 28, 2007
Pakistan: Bhutto Assassination Underscores Need for Political Reconciliation
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1761)
The United States should encourage Pakistan's leaders to achieve a political consensus against terrorism and recommit to the democratic process.
December 28, 2007
China's Superpower Economy
By John Tkacik
(WebMemo #1762)
China needs to be taken seriously as an international economic force and a strategic and military power.
December 21, 2007
Pakistan: Defense and Security Challenges
By Lisa Curtis
(Heritage Lecture #1055)
To garner the full counterterrorism cooperation the U.S. requires from Islamabad, Washington must develop a realistic and hard-nosed policy that takes on Pakistan’s ambivalence toward ...
December 20, 2007
Conservative Landslide Marks New Era in South Korea
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1758)
The election of Lee Myung-bak is good news for the United States on the diplomatic, security, and economic fronts.
December 12, 2007
Trojan Dragons: China's International Cyber Warriors
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1735)
China's clandestine intelligence collection is the top intelligence threat to America's science and technology secrets.
December 11, 2007
The Election of Anson Chan: A Step Forward for Democracy in Hong Kong
By Ambassador Harvey Feldman
(WebMemo #1734)
The United States should contine to support the democratic forces within Hong Kong society.
December 10, 2007
Pakistan: Credible Elections More Important than Personalities
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1728)
Building up democratic institutions offers, over the long haul, the best chance to combat Islamic extremism in Pakistan and the region.
December 7, 2007
Economic Lethargy: South Korea Needs a Second Wave of Reforms
By Bruce Klingner and Anthony B. Kim
(Backgrounder #2090)
The economy of South Korea reflects a strengthening recovery, but inconsistent economic policies, lingering systemic deficiencies, and increasingly competitive rivals create significant long-term challenges. To ...
December 7, 2007
Executive Summary: Economic Lethargy: South Korea Needs a Second Wave of Reforms
By Bruce Klingner and Anthony B. Kim
(Executive Summary #2090)
The economy of South Korea reflects a strengthening recovery, but inconsistent economic policies, lingering systemic deficiencies, and increasingly competitive rivals create significant long-term challenges. To ...
November 27, 2007
The U.N. Must Stop Enabling the Burmese Regime
By Brett D. Schaefer
(WebMemo #1710)
The United States should take steps within the U.N. to prevent the oppressive regime in Burma from using the privileges of the organization.
November 5, 2007
Musharraf's Emergency Rule Will Only Fuel Pakistan Crisis
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1691)
The move will anger the public, deepen civil–military tensions, and hinder the Army’s ability to fight an already faltering war on extremists.
November 2, 2007
The Costs of a Failed U.S.–India Civil Nuclear Deal
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1688)
Failure would be a setback for India’s status on the world stage and its relationship with the United States.
October 15, 2007
Revitalizing U.S. Efforts in Afghanistan
By Lisa Curtis and James Phillips
(Backgrounder #2076)
Consolidating a stable Afghanistan that is free from Taliban influence and ideology will be expensive and will require a patient, long-term, integrated political, military, and ...
October 4, 2007
North Korea: Worrisome Gaps in Six-Party Talks' Joint Statement
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1655)
The agreement is insufficient to ensure full North Korean denuclearization.
October 2, 2007
President Reagan's Six Assurances to Taiwan and Their Meaning Today
By Ambassador Harvey Feldman
(WebMemo #1653)
The past, present, and future of America's diplomatic role in the cross-Strait conflict.
September 28, 2007
Crisis in Burma: Choosing Our Friends
By Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1649)
The United States needs to rely less on China and more on its democratic friends in the region.
September 26, 2007
Fukuda May Tack Back on Japan's Assertive Foreign Policy
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1642)
In working to build broad support, the prime minister is likely to compromise on the gains his predecessors made in asserting a new regional security ...
September 18, 2007
Keeping Pakistan's Nuclear Weapons Out of the Hands of Terrorists
By Lisa A. Curtis
(Heritage Lecture #1043)
U.S. policy should center on helping to prevent the penetration of Pakistan’s nuclear establishment. The U.S. should also continue to encourage India–Pakistan dialogue that will ...
September 12, 2007
South Korea’s Mercurial Political Landscape
By Bruce Klingner
(Backgrounder #2068)
U.S. policymakers should take advantage of a change in South Korean administrations to improve and transform the relationship. Washington and Seoul should also define the ...
September 12, 2007
U.N. Secretary–General's Lack of Leadership Undermines Accountability
By Brett D. Schaefer
(WebMemo #1611)
Secretary–General Ban Ki-Moon sided with the U.N. Development Program after it fired a whistleblower who helped the United States uncover a scandal involving the program’s ...
September 12, 2007
Abe Resigns: Washington's Delicate Diplomatic Dance
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1614)
A change in leadership throws Japan's political scene into turmoil and makes U.S.-Japanese diplomacy suddenly more complicated.
September 11, 2007
China's Yuan: Manipulated, Misaligned, or Just Misunderstood?
By Daniella Markheim
(WebMemo #1608)
Proposals from Congress would only hurt American families and businesses. None would provide a boost to U.S. manufacturing, exports, or jobs by making America more ...
September 10, 2007
Dealing with Taiwan's Referendum on the United Nations
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1606)
A distracted Washington is allowing a laser-focused Beijing to shape the strategic agenda in the Pacific.
August 31, 2007
Questioning the CIA's Claim of a Drop in China's Military Spending
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1597)
The CIA may be under political pressure to downplay the "China threat."
August 30, 2007
Japanese Election Results Hamper U.S. Objectives in Asia
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1594)
With the opposition vowing to obstruct his foreign policy initiatives, a weakened Prime Minister Shinzo Abe must show bold and decisive leadership if he hopes ...
August 22, 2007
Beijing Olympics Boycott: A Wake-Up Call
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1590)
Although an American boycott is not feasible, the 2008 Bejing Olympic Games present an opportunity for the Administration and Congress to call attention to the ...
August 15, 2007
Free Trade with Taiwan Is Long Overdue
By John J. Tkacik, Jr., and Daniella Markheim
(Backgrounder #2061)
A U.S.–Taiwan free trade agreement would (among other things) increase U.S. auto, rice, poultry, and livestock exports and open a significant new market for new ...
August 14, 2007
U.S. Nuclear Agreement with India: An Acceptable Deal for Major Strategic Gain
By Lisa Curtis and Baker Spring
(WebMemo #1587)
The 123 Agreement will greatly strengthen the U.S. strategic position in Asia by solidifying a partnership with a 1 billion–strong, economically booming democracy that borders ...
August 8, 2007
Seoul's Impetuous Summit Initiative
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1584)
South Korean President Roh Moo Hyun's attempt to secure his legacy and influence coming presidential elections risks undermining multinational efforts to denuclearize North Korea and ...
July 31, 2007
Congress Should Extend Trade Preferences to Asia's Poorest
By Daniella Markheim and Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1578)
Congress should act this year to extend the benefits of lowered tariffs to Asia's poorest countries.
July 26, 2007
The Long-Term U.S.–China Economic Relationship: Getting It Right
By The Honorable Henry M. Paulson, Jr.
(Heritage Lecture #B.C. Lee 12)
One of the primary objectives of the U.S.-China Strategic Economic Dialogue is to speed the pace of reform in China. Getting results means building relationships ...
July 19, 2007
The Asian Financial Crisis 10 Years Later: Time to Reaffirm Economic Freedom
By Anthony B. Kim
(Backgrounder #2054)
The Asian countries should use this 10-year anniversary to solidify their ongoing recovery by bolstering their commitment to greater economic freedom, and the U.S. should ...
July 17, 2007
Protecting Democracy in Bangladesh
By Lisa A. Curtis
(WebMemo #1559)
The U.S. should stress the importance of respect for individual liberties and due process of law as Bangladesh's interim government seeks to address the country's ...
July 13, 2007
Bolstering Pakistan in its Fight Against Extremism
By Lisa A. Curtis
(WebMemo #1554)
As Pakistan faces a crucial moment in its battle against extremism, Washington must support President Musharraf's offensive against terrorism while pressing for free and fair ...
July 12, 2007
Election Risk for Japanese Prime Minister
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1550)
A loss by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party or the resignation of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe could hinder U.S. efforts to have Japan assume a ...
July 10, 2007
It May Be Time for Asia to Position for the Next Administration
By Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1545)
Recent decisions by the Bush Administration have increased the perception among friends and allies in East Asia of declining U.S. commitment to the region.
July 6, 2007
U.S. Policy and Pakistan's Nuclear Weapons: Containing Threats and Encouraging Regional Security
By Lisa A. Curtis
(Testimony )
U.S. policy should center on helping to prevent the penetration of the nuclear establishment over time by individuals sympathetic to al-Qaeda goals.
June 18, 2007
A Future Unbound: U.S.-India Relations
By The Honorable R. Nicholas Burns
(Heritage Lecture #1031)
The U.S. and India should extend their partnership on a global basis to all parts of the world and in some areas to accentuate what ...
June 15, 2007
Banking Transfer Plays to North Korean Demands
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1507)
The U.S. must press North Korea to provide details on its highly enriched uranium-based nuclear weapons program and to agree to stringent verification measures to ...
June 11, 2007
American Interests in Pakistan Are Larger than One Man
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1497)
Rather than blindly support Musharraf, Washington should encourage a transition to democracy.
June 8, 2007
U.S. Aid to Pakistan: Countering Extremism Through Education Reform
By Lisa Curtis
(Heritage Lecture #1029)
Encouraging the development of a strong and effective education system in Pakistan that will help steer the country toward a path of stability, moderation, and ...
June 8, 2007
Adjusting to the Reality of a Democratic Indonesia
By Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1495)
House appropriators have charted a strikingly unwise course in slashing and conditioning military assistance to Indonesia. Indonesia is a natural partner for the United States ...
May 23, 2007
The Impact of U.S. Policy on North Korean Illicit Activities
By David L. Asher, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #1024)
During its first term, the Bush Administration developed and implemented an innovative and highly effective strategy to combat North Korea’s arms trading and criminal activities ...
May 23, 2007
Transforming the U.S.–Japanese Alliance
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1471)
Washington must adopt a more active strategy to help Japan take a larger role in deterring military threats.
May 22, 2007
The Taiwan Status Quo "As We Define It"
By Ambassador Harvey Feldman
(WebMemo #1465)
For most purposes, American law treats Taiwan as a state separate from China. Why do federal officials keep forgetting that?
May 17, 2007
China's Quest for a Superpower Military
By John J. Tkacik
(Backgrounder #2036)
China is building a military capable of projecting power throughout Asia and the Western Pacific and could become Asia’s economic, trade, political security, and human ...
May 17, 2007
Executive Summary: China's Quest for a Superpower Military
By John J. Tkacik
(Executive Summary #2036)
China is building a military capable of projecting power throughout Asia and the Western Pacific and could become Asia’s economic, trade, political security, and human ...
May 10, 2007
The Trap of China-ASEAN Military Cooperation
By Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1451)
A proposed ASEAN-China military partnership could divide Asia into rival blocs, aligning the democracies of America, Japan, and Australia on one side, and China and ...
April 30, 2007
Countering Pyongyang's Next Steps in the Six Party Process
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1438)
In the next round of talks, the U.S. should take a firm stance on denuclearization, disclosure, verification, and compliance, lest North Korea devise strategies to ...
April 26, 2007
The Triangular Dynamic in Asia: The U.S., India, and China
By Lisa Curtis
(Heritage Lecture #1017)
It is likely that we will see a triangular future evolve among the U.S., China, and India as they each pursue one another on a ...
April 25, 2007
Beijing's Intentions in Space
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1431)
Aside from the Pentagon, the U.S. policy establishment has yet to recognize the significance of China's new anti-satellite capability.
April 25, 2007
North Korean Human Rights After the Six-Party Talks
By Jay Lefkowitz
(Heritage Lecture #1018)
The February 13, 2007, Six-Party Talks agreement has established a framework broad enough for North Korea to make progress on human rights if it so ...
April 20, 2007
Pakistan Can Achieve Stability Through Democracy
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1428)
Musharraf should take on the anti-democratic vigilantes in Islamabad and militants in the tribal border areas and take a conciliatory approach toward civilian leaders who ...
April 4, 2007
Confronting the North Korean Nuclear Threat
By Bruce Klingner
(Backgrounder #2023)
The Six-Party Talks will fail if North Korea does not decide to give up its nuclear weapons completely. Collapse of the talks or even a ...
April 4, 2007
Promoting Stability and Democracy in Pakistan
By Lisa Curtis
(Heritage Lecture #1009)
Although Pakistan has arrested and handed over al-Qaeda suspects to the U.S., it has not made a clean break with the Taliban and other extremists. ...
April 2, 2007
The U.S.-South Korea FTA: A Defining Moment
By Bruce Klingner and Anthony B. Kim
(WebMemo #1413)
Ratification would mean a new era for U.S. economic engagement with East Asia and expanded opportunities for the American economy. Failure, however, would strike a ...
March 26, 2007
Into Africa: China's Grab for Influence and Oil
By Peter Brookes
(Heritage Lecture #1006)
China is seeking new markets for its export-driven economy and access to Africa’s abundant natural resources, especially sources of energy. However, Beijing’s broad energy, trade, ...
March 20, 2007
Guidelines for U.S. Policy in Southeast Asia
By Walter Lohman
(Backgrounder #2017)
Southeast Asia is vital to U.S. political, economic, and security interests. Ensuring that the region remains strong, independent, and outward-looking is therefore in the best ...
March 15, 2007
Banco Delta Asia Ruling Complicates North Korean Nuclear Deal
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1398)
The U.S. Treasury Department's March 14 ruling against a Macau-based bank for its complicity in North Korea's illegal activities could further the Six-Party Talks if ...
March 8, 2007
The U.S. and India: Partnership for the 21st Century
By Kim R. Holmes, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #998)
America and India both have much to gain from their growing strategic relationship. Together, they can more easily show to the world the consummate value ...
March 8, 2007
A Chinese Military Superpower?
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1389)
A close look at China's military spending suggests that China's intent is to challenge the United States as a military superpower.
February 21, 2007
Promoting U.S. and Indian Prosperity Through Freer Trade and Economic Liberalization
By Daniella Markheim
(WebMemo #1365)
An improved political climate alone will not be enough to break down the many barriers to economic activity between the U.S. and India.
February 20, 2007
India's Expanding Role in Asia: Adapting to Rising Power Status
By Lisa Curtis
(Backgrounder #2008)
Because India’s increased economic and political involvement in Asia will help to further overall U.S. goals in the region, the U.S. should increasingly factor India ...
February 14, 2007
North Korea Nuclear and Missile Issues: What's the Solution?
By Kim R. Holmes, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #993)
How to get Pyongyang to give up its nuclear weapons and the means to deliver them.
February 13, 2007
North Korea Nuclear Weapons Agreement Falls Short
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1358)
The agreement rewards Pyongyang for its bad behavior and reflects America’s abandonment of several previously intractable negotiating positions.
February 5, 2007
A Six-Party Strategy: How the U.S. Can Press North Korea to Give Up Its Nuclear Weapons
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1339)
While movement in the Six-Party Talks would be a welcome development, the U.S. must not abandon its demand for complete dismantlement of all of North ...
January 29, 2007
Strengthening Pakistani Resolve Against the Taliban
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1331)
Until the Bush Administration increases pressure on Pakistan to ensure the Taliban finds no safe haven within its borders, its plans to address the growing ...
January 12, 2007
India and Pakistan Poised to Make Progress on Kashmir
By Lisa Curtis
(Backgrounder #1997)
The U.S. has carefully developed stronger bilateral relationships with both India and Pakistan over the past five years. Now that the Indian and Pakistani leaders ...
January 11, 2007
America's Stake in Taiwan
By John J. Tkacik
(Backgrounder #1996)
In 1945, President Harry Truman declared a “strong, united and democratic China” to be one of “the most vital interests of the United States.” Two ...
January 11, 2007
Executive Summary: America's Stake in Taiwan
By John J. Tkacik
(Executive Summary #1996)
In 1945, President Harry Truman declared a “strong, united and democratic China” to be one of “the most vital interests of the United States.” Two ...
January 5, 2007
Apply Pressure to Firm Up the Six-Party Talks
By Bruce Klingner
(WebMemo #1300)
The talks are not dead, yet. The Bush Administration should work multilaterally to increase pressure on Pyongyang, economically and otherwise.
December 22, 2006
Democracy Is a Necessary Hedge Against Crisis in Thailand
By Walter Lohman
(WebMemo #1292)
Bad government policy sends stock markets tumbling. Restoring democracy is the only way to cut the risk of more government mishaps.
December 5, 2006
Preparing for the U.S.–China Strategic Economic Dialogue
By Michael A. Needham, Tim Kane, Ph.D., and John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1276)
The U.S.–China Strategic Economic Dialogue is an opportunity to promote economic freedom and address challenges the U.S. and China face.
December 4, 2006
China and India: Thawing Relations Unlikely to Lead to Strategic Partnership
By Lisa Curtis and John Tkacik
(WebMemo #1272)
India seeks ties with the rising China but is likely to retain its strategic autonomy.
November 3, 2006
Keep the Pressure on Kim Jong-il
By Michael A. Needham
(WebMemo #1246)
North Korea’s decision to return to the six-party nuclear-disarmament talks is only an initial step toward its denuclearization.
October 31, 2006
Grim Future for Taiwan's Defenses
By Michael A. Needham and John Tkacik
(WebMemo #1243)
Taiwan must bolster its defenses in order to revive U.S.-Taiwan defense cooperation and to strengthen its position in discussions with China.
October 30, 2006
U.S. Policy in Northeast Asia
By The Honorable Condoleezza Rice
(Heritage Lecture #B.C. Lee 11)
During her recent meetings with the leaders of China, Japan, South Korea, and Russia, Secretary Rice has brought greater attention to a region increasingly at ...
October 26, 2006
Denying Terrorists Safe Haven in Pakistan
By Lisa Curtis
(Backgrounder #1981)
Stability in Afghanistan and South Asia generally is tied to Pakistani action to limit the Taliban’s ability to operate in Pakistan, peace efforts with India, ...
October 16, 2006
The U.S.-Korea Alliance on the Rocks: Shaken, Not Stirred
By Balbina Y. Hwang, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #970)
The U.S.–ROK alliance plays a critical role in regional peace and stability. Both countries must work together to achieve a new and common vision for ...
October 11, 2006
A New Tack for China after North Korea's Nuclear Test?
By John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(WebMemo #1236)
The U.S. should press Beijing to join in supporting tough sanctions on Pyongyang.
October 10, 2006
How to Approach the China–North Korea Relationship
By David L. Asher, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #969)
China has long served as a safe harbor for North Korean proliferation and illicit trading networks and a transport hub for these networks. The U.S. ...
October 9, 2006
Nuclear Test Calls for Active Intolerance of North Korean Regime
By Michael A. Needham
(WebMemo #1232)
In response to the North Korean nuclear test, the U.S. and its allies must extend a comprehensive offensive and defensive deterrent policy to the Korean ...
September 26, 2006
China and the Middle East: A New Patron of Regional Instability
By Ji Hye Shin and John J. Tkacik, Jr.
(Backgrounder #1974)
China regards its patronage of Middle Eastern states like Iran and Syria and radical groups like Hezbollah and Hamas as crucial to its geopolitical success. ...
September 20, 2006
Korea and the United States: Forging a Partnership for the Future
By Edwin J. Feulner, Ph.D.
(Heritage Lecture #963)
The U.S. and the Republic of Korea must maintain their strong security and economic relationship to counter threats from North Korea and to increase economic ...
September 18, 2006
Fine Tuning U.S. Relations with Pakistan
By Lisa Curtis
(WebMemo #1215)
The visit of Pakistan’s president offers opportunities to bolster U.S.-Pakistan relations.
September 7, 2006
The Dragon Looks West: China and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization</
