China tried to save face last week, by lashing out at those critical of its human rights record during a meeting of the UN Human Rights Council.
China tried to save face last week, by lashing out at those critical of its human rights record during a meeting of the UN Human Rights Council.
In a show of counterforce, the U.S. has sailed an aircraft carrier, two destroyers, two cruisers, and the command ship of the Japan-based 7th Fleet into the disputed waters of the South China Sea.
China’s assertive attitude towards its neighbors and America’s role in East Asia has slowly morphed since last autumn’s final round of provocative acts into something less strident.
On Sunday, Pyongyang launched a long-range missile. While China still opposes expanding sanctions on North Korea, Washington has recently stressed its determination to support South Korea and Japan against the North’s nuclear threat.
ECB speech after signals of new stimulus. Iranian President travels to Europe. Bank of England officials testify. Conferences highlight oil price collapse. Bank of Japan surprise with policy shift. All in the week’s risk outlook.
Should Beijing refuse to honor a potential ruling against their claims of sovereignty, we can expect China to again attempt to assert its economic muscle to persuade other regional nations to settle the disputes bilaterally.
Tuesday’s voyage of the destroyer USS Lassen through waters claimed by China in the South China Sea had the potential to escalate an already tense situation.
Concern over potential misunderstandings and a possible escalation of tensions over territorial claims have led the U.S. and China to set up a military hotline along with rules of airborne engagement.
Now that Chinese President Xi Jinping announced a pledge of $2 billion in development aid for poor countries, should these countries accept the offer?
Local fishermen in the South China Sea have long gone unprotected when fishing in their own waters or in waters claimed by other countries. But this may soon change, following attacks this year on Vietnamese fishing boats.