Jun 25, 2014

Chinese criticism of the Pentagon’s latest report on China’s military power is misplaced. The text is not intended to propagate the “China threat” thesis as part of a U.S.-led containment strategy. Instead, the document offers a balanced review of Chinese capabilities and intentions, and combines deterrence threats with reassuring opportunities for further China-U.S. defense cooperation.

Jun 12, 2014

This year’s “Joint Sea-2014” maritime exercise between China and Russia was noticeable in several respects. First, the drill coincided with a state visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to China. Second, it came at a time when other signs of deepening Sino-Russian cooperation were evident. Third, China tried to use the drills to legitimize its Air Defense Identification Zone. Finally, it failed to evoke much of a reaction from Washington.

Jun 03, 2014

The May 21 Sino-Russian gas deal has been long expected, but it took Chinese and Russian negotiators more than a decade to overcome their differences on the issue, which reflecting diverging price expectations. In the end, the parties stuck to their winning formula of China’s providing Russian firms with the money they need in advance to develop new energy supplies and transport them to China through guaranteed long-term contracts. The United States has minimal influence over both countries’ energy policies and will need to work with regional partners, including China, to encourage price competition, competition, and transparency.

May 13, 2014

The unfavorable Chinese media coverage of President Barack Obama’s recent Asian trip reflects the mistaken impression that the president’s tour was designed to rally regional partners against Beijing, writes Richard Weitz.

Apr 23, 2014

China has always valued military secrecy, however Richard Weitz explains that in recent years China has advanced in terms of transparency and the importance of clear communication between China and the U.S.

Mar 26, 2014

Skillful Chinese diplomacy has managed to transform an initial damage limitation strategy into one that will likely bring benefits to Beijing. China has won praise from both sides of the conflict without suffering any major costs. Although Beijing will not apply sanctions to Moscow for its actions, China has expressed disapproval of the Crimean referendum through its silence—probably the best Washington can hope for.

Mar 18, 2014

Although China’s response to the current crisis in Ukraine has been complex; China has increasing tilted toward Moscow. This decision has drawn praise from within China, but criticism from the international community.

Feb 19, 2014

The United States would benefit from a reconciliation between Russia and Japan, which would also help China continue its peaceful rise, writes Richard Weitz.

Jan 18, 2014

During the past dozen years, China’s economic and strategic interests in Afghanistan have grown considerably. Following U.S. military involvement in Afghanistan, Richard Weitz discusses the potential for cooperation between Beijing and Washington in the region.

Dec 24, 2013

Chinese officials have adopted a conspicuously low-key attitude toward the U.S. National Security Agency affair. However, despite protests from countries like Germany and Brazil, Beijing and Washington should work together to protect common cyber interests.