Sajjad Ashraf
Former Adjunct Professor, National University of Singapore
Oct 25, 2024
The withdrawal of the Philippine coast guard cutter BRP Teresa Magbanua from Sabina Shoal highlights rising tensions in the South China Sea, where China and the Philippines assert conflicting territorial claims. While it opens the door for potential diplomacy, the incident also underscores the Philippines' growing alignment with the U.S. amid concerns of becoming collateral damage in broader geopolitical rivalries.
Sep 30, 2024
China's engagement with Africa through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation highlights its strategic commitment to the continent, positioning itself as a robust alternative to Western influence.
Mar 05, 2024
As dissatisfaction with the Western-led financial system grows, BRICS is emerging as a collective voice for developing nations, challenging the dominance of the U.S.-led global order and advocating for alternatives to the dollar and euro.
Jan 05, 2024
The compromise reached by U.S. Congress on the military spending bill, allowing the sale of nuclear submarines to Australia as part of AUKUS, signals a significant shift in defense dynamics in the Asia-Pacific. While intended to bolster regional security, the pact faces criticism both within Australia and among neighboring nations, raising concerns about arms races and the sidelining of economic cooperation in the region.
Jul 04, 2023
Washington’s increased presence in the Asia-Pacific region, along with the polarization of America’s political system, are intensifying the challenge of reaching a breakthrough with China. And as tensions grow, particularly surrounding Taiwan, the U.S. must build on the momentum from Blinken’s visit and seek compromise with Beijing.
Apr 28, 2023
The Indian Ocean, as a maritime crossroads of international trade, is a key area of competition between China and the United States.
Jan 31, 2023
Australia’s alignment to the West and its trade barriers with China has entrenched tensions between the two Asian countries.
Dec 02, 2022
ASEAN toes a delicate balancing act between China and the United States, and the latest ASEAN Summit demonstrates the complexities involved in steering clear of unnecessary tensions.
Nov 09, 2022
The rapid decline in understanding between China and the U.S. has sparked concerns over the peaceful transition from one dominant power to the other.
Jul 07, 2022
Is the U.S. ready to meaningfully engage with the Asia-Pacific region? Their latest offering comes in the form of the IPEF, and the differences between the U.S.-led trade pact and competing ones led by Asian powers will show whether American leadership has brought enough to the table.