New Leaders Forum – The Diplomat

The Tide of History Breaks in August

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 14:19:30 +0900

A combustible mix of history, current events, and leadership transitions all combine to stoke regional tensions.

Obama's 'Flat-Footed' Pivot

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 14:56:21 +0900

If the U.S. wants to successfully ‘pivot’ to Asia, the Obama Administration needs a more consistent approach.

S. Korea-Japan: Time for Outside Mediation?

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 17:12:00 +0900

Can Tokyo and Seoul set aside the past? An outside mediator may ease the path forward.

America and Europe's Pacific Partnership

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 13:35:00 +0900

Can efforts by America and Europe to coordinate policy in Asia breathe new life into a time-tested partnership?

In Light of the Pivot, Finding Tomorrow's Asia Experts

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 20:35:53 +0900

After a decade’s gaze on the Middle East, America needs people who know Asia, says Eric Sayers.

Iran: Running Out of Options

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 16:13:00 +0900

Oil sanctions are hurting Iran’s economy, argues Javad Heydarian. Are old friends jumping ship as well?

Playing Politics in Japan

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 00:55:03 +0900

Despite an impending economic crisis, Japan’s politicians seem more worried about their own careers.

After Rio+20

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 17:34:43 +0900

Rio+20 was dismissed by many as likely to be just a talking shop. Sadly, critics may have been right.

The Logic of China’s Korea Policy

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 15:00:30 +0900

China sees the U.S.-South Korea alliance as a threat. Its policy toward North Korea shouldn’t surprise.

Unfriendly Waters for China

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 15:44:57 +0900

China as been keen to bolster its naval strength. But could its advances prove strategically counterproductive?

Asia’s Competing Visions

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 16:41:54 +0900

There is no shortage of economic visions for Asia. Is TPP the future? Or FTAAP? Or ASEAN-RCEP?

Can EU Be Relevant for Asia?

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 17:06:11 +0900

The EU is at a crossroads with its Asia-Pacific policy. Should it focus on economics or human rights?

Manila Takes on the Goliath

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 19:23:07 +0900

The Scarborough Shoal between the Philippines and China is still rumbling on. Can Manila come out on top?

Why Baghdad Talks Faltered

Wed, 30 May 2012 14:20:02 +0900

The talks over Iran’s nuclear program were a reminder of how big the gap is between and Tehran and the West.

How U.S. Must Adapt in Asia

Wed, 23 May 2012 11:38:55 +0900

If the U.S. wants to be the resident Pacific power then it needs to show greater commitment than it has done.

Should U.S. Scramble?

Tue, 22 May 2012 15:39:45 +0900

The idea that the U.S. can stand still as China rises is misplaced. Washington needs to show it can scramble.

How Denmark Sees Asia

Mon, 21 May 2012 22:30:47 +0900

Asia’s rise is an opportunity, not a threat, says Denmark’s ambassador to the U.S., Peter Taksøe-Jensen.

Asia-3 Key to Syria Crisis

Thu, 10 May 2012 16:27:12 +0900

If there is to be a lasting diplomatic solution to the Syria crisis it will need to involve China, Iran and Russia.

Beijing Under Siege?

Mon, 07 May 2012 17:41:33 +0900

Beijing is faced with a raft of policy challenges. What will the current leadership leave for the next this year?

How Australia Sees America (Pt II)

Fri, 04 May 2012 19:00:00 +0900

Washington Correspondent Eddie Walsh talks defense, diplomacy, and trade issues with Australia’s U.S. Ambassador.

Japan, India Edge Closer

Wed, 02 May 2012 14:45:54 +0900

There’s more to a Japan-India partnership than China. There are plenty of reasons for them to move closer.

Is U.S-China Distrust Inevitable?

Tue, 01 May 2012 21:17:54 +0900

Some argue mistrust between the U.S. and China stems from lack of awareness. Maybe they just don’t agree.

North Korea’s Resource Headache

Tue, 01 May 2012 16:11:36 +0900

North Korea has trillions of dollars worth of natural resources by some estimates. But could that be a curse?

Singapore’s Military Modernization

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:01:12 +0900

Singapore has the most technologically advanced military in ASEAN. But its defense planning needs a rethink.

Deciphering North Korea

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 22:57:55 +0900

China will likely keep backing North Korea. But with a leadership transition, Pyongyang shouldn’t push too hard.

Creating a New International Order

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 18:53:05 +0900

The lowest common denominator is no longer a good starting point for meaningful coordinated global action.

Making Baghdad Talks a Success

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 22:38:22 +0900

Iran nuclear talks in Istanbul were a step in the right direction. But there’s much to thrash out before Baghdad.

Understanding North Korea

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:43:00 +0900

The past month has seen a number of key developments in North Korea. So why isn’t anything clearer?

How Australia Sees America

Sat, 14 Apr 2012 14:49:22 +0900

Australia is happy for a closer alliance with the U.S. But it will always be based on Canberra’s best interests.

Why Iran Will Compromise

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 18:09:54 +0900

Pessimists argue little will come of the latest Iran talks. But a regime struggling for survival may compromise.

The Real Pakistan Danger

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 18:38:16 +0900

The real danger from Pakistan isn’t its nuclear arsenal falling into terrorist hands. It’s an economic collapse.

Can Japan, South Korea Connect?

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 19:19:23 +0900

Sovereignty and historical issues don’t have to destroy cooperation between Japan and South Korea.

Can Japan Firms Woo Foreigners?

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 22:23:41 +0900

Japanese firms are increasingly looking overseas for new markets. But can they woo foreign talent?

Back to Nuclear Drawing Board

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 17:50:48 +0900

There were few surprises at the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit. Japan, meanwhile, seems distracted.

Obama and a Tehran Communiqué?

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:22:14 +0900

Barack Obama might do well to take a leaf out of Richard Nixon’s China playbook as he contemplates Iran.

Time to Call North Korea's Bluff

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 22:27:24 +0900

The U.S. shouldn’t be sucked into more tit-for-tat with North Korea. Observing its “satellite” launch may help.

Asia’s Real “America Problem”

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 19:13:53 +0900

The U.S. may have indicated it is pivoting to the Asia-Pacific. But Asian allies worry about its commitment.

How Europe Shies from Taiwan

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:49:38 +0900

Europe accounts for a fraction of Taiwan’s defense import needs. Expect things to stay that way.

India's Diplomatic Iran Dance

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 19:06:23 +0900

Caught between U.S. pressure and its oil needs, India is involved in a delicate diplomatic dance.

Vietnam Engages the World

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 17:18:44 +0900

As Vietnam steps fully onto the international stage, economic development will be a key to success.

Can North Korea be Trusted?

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 22:02:07 +0900

The North Korea deal suggests a gradual shift in policy. But history suggests caution is warranted.

Don't Fret Over Maldives

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 06:37:03 +0900

Concerns about the recent coup in the Maldives are misplaced. China and Islamic extremism aren’t a worry.

China and Iran Breaking Up?

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:58:24 +0900

Chinese and Iranian interests used to align. But Iran’s nuclear program may be driving a wedge between them.

Vietnam Eyes Middle Powers

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 18:37:37 +0900

The U.S. may seem an attractive partner for Vietnam. But middle powers could offer a better alternative.

Malaysia's Right Wing Problem

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 19:23:06 +0900

Lively civil society is welcome. But is Malaysia’s government turning a blind eye to extremist voices?

North Korea: Tactics vs Strategy

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 00:02:56 +0900

The deal between the U.S. and North Korea was a good tactical step. But a strategic approach is needed.

Burma’s Exchange Rate Problem

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:15:00 +0900

Attention on Burma’s reforms has focused on democracy. But the mundane issue of exchange rates may be key.

Between a Dragon and an Eagle

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:51:27 +0900

The Philippines isn’t sure how it feels about the U.S. military presence. A rising China leaves it little choice.

How Norway Sees the Arctic

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 22:58:00 +0900

The Diplomat speaks with the Norwegian ambassador to the U.S. about the Arctic, China and security.

ASEAN Ready for Global Role?

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:56:49 +0900

As ASEAN countries try to balance China and the United States, are members ready for the global big time?

Iran, West Head for Showdown

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 21:47:37 +0900

The West is putting pressure on to tighten the screws over Iran’s nuclear program. But will it work?

Security and the Life Sciences

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 19:13:02 +0900

The recent announcement that scientists created a version of H5N1 influenza virus has implications for Asia.

Russia Does its Own Pivot

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 19:11:52 +0900

Russia is increasingly paying attention to developments in Asia. But are positions on Iran and Syria hurting it?

Taiwan's Election Beacon

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 23:05:20 +0900

Last month’s election in Taiwan had mainlanders talking. The peaceful way it was contested offers China hope.

Kim Jong-un's Campaign

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:42:15 +0900

It’s too early to say if Kim Jong-un will continue his father’s military first policies. But it looks that way.

The Road to Rio+20

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:52:19 +0900

This year’s Rio+20 U.N. Conference on Sustainable Development has big implications, including for Asia.

Congress’ Weak China Hand

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:53:25 +0900

The U.S. Congress can be a tough critic of Barack Obama’s China policy. But its done little to slow it.

Iran Gets Close to Iraq

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:13:33 +0900

With the U.S. military’s withdrawal from Iraq, Iran has been happy to step in as a new ally for Baghdad.

Seoul and Beijing’s Troubled Ties

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:45:32 +0900

This month’s summit between Lee Myung-bak and Hu Jintao highlighted the strains between Beijing and Seoul.

U.S. Military's A2/AD Challenge

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:51:23 +0900

The Pentagon’s Joint Operational Access Concept breathes new life into discussion of Anti-Access/Area Denial.

Nepal Balances Interests

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:22:03 +0900

The Diplomat speaks with Nepal’s ambassador to the United States about Tibet, India and ties with China.

A Path for North Korean Reform?

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 19:18:34 +0900

The time might be ripe for other nations to encourage Chinese-style economic reforms in North Korea. Maybe.

Asia’s Nuclear Footprints

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 20:36:39 +0900

Asia’s ability to ensure the region’s nuclear arms are properly managed will depend on the actions of 3 nations.

The Danger of Monotone Asia

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:36:56 +0900

Asia needs competing voices and ideas if it is to prosper. No single nation should be seen as speaking for it.

India, Japan Ties Blossom

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 22:48:08 +0900

Ties between India and Japan have started to blossom this past year. There’s plenty of space for more growth.

Indonesia's CTBT Step

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 23:33:09 +0900

Indonesia’s decision to ratify the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty should be seen as a small but welcome step.

Why World Should Watch Rason

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 22:11:16 +0900

The North Korean free trade zone of Rajin-Sonbong isn’t sparking a revolution. But it’s a key starting point.

Can Kim Muddle Through?

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:07:34 +0900

The death of Kim Jong-il has left the Asia-Pacific in a state of flux. Expect things to get complicated next year.

The U.S.-China Straitjacket

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:48:41 +0900

Asia-Pacific nations need to stop seeing their foreign policy through the prism of U.S.-China balance.

Handling North Korea 3.0

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 01:44:49 +0900

Kim Jong-un’s biggest challenge in trying to consolidate power could be managing political-military tensions.

The West Philippine Sea?

Javad Heydarian — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:40:00 +0900

The Diplomat speaks with Walden Bello about China, the U.S. role in Asia and renaming the South China Sea.

U.S.-Pakistan Ties on Brink

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 18:56:10 +0900

With talk of possible coup swirling around Pakistan, the U.S. looks close to losing a key strategic partner.

Tweaking China's Soft Power

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:11:13 +0900

China’s soft power is widely talked about. But the country’s leaders will need to show flexibility to make it work.

Taiwan Presses Forward

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 19:23:37 +0900

The Diplomat speaks with Taiwan ambassador to the United States about democracy and international isolation.

Nuclear Iran Good for India?

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:57:10 +0900

A nuclear Iran is looking like a growing possibility. Could this actually be a strategic asset for India?

China's "Cult of the Military"

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 19:05:38 +0900

China’s PLA has often kept a low profile in the nation’s politics. But its influence over policy may be growing.

Latin America's Pacific Gateway

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 20:43:32 +0900

The Diplomat speaks with Chile’s ambassador to the United States about his country’s plans in the Asia-Pacific.

The Real North Korea Threat

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:10:28 +0900

The WMD threat from Kim Jong-il’s regime is real. But a bigger threat could come from its conventional forces.

Taiwan Election Primer

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 03:46:55 +0900

Taiwan’s upcoming election could play a crucial role in cross-strait relations. CSIS outlines what’s at stake.

The Australian Canary

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:15:04 +0900

One of Australia’s top foreign policy commentators is skeptical about the U.S. base deal. It’s a much-needed debate.

China's End-to End Censoring

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 18:48:53 +0900

China’s media crackdown is frequently discussed. But it goes deeper than censoring what newspapers report.

India is no U.S. Pawn

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 19:13:17 +0900

Some U.S. policy makers simply see ties with India as a way of countering China. It’s a misguided approach.

Russia's Iran Nuclear Solution

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 17:05:50 +0900

As tensions grow over Iran’s nuclear program following release of the IAEA report, Russia has a step-by-step plan.

Russia's North Korea Gas Deal

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:12:34 +0900

A planned gas pipeline from Russia to South Korea through North Korea should keep everyone happy. Maybe.

Looking Forward in Sri Lanka

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 17:47:17 +0900

Sri Lankan Ambassador to the U.S. Jaliya Wickramasuriya talks to The Diplomat about his country’s future.

ASEAN's Third Way?

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 17:37:16 +0900

As ASEAN works toward its own economic community, does it offer a third way for public-private relations?

Deterrence Meets Great Wall

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 16:02:59 +0900

Despite the impression given by Western media, China’s underground nuclear “Great Wall” may cut tensions.

The Meaning of Seoul's Election

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:39:25 +0900

The win in Seoul’s mayoral election by Park Won-soon reflects growing frustration among South Koreans.

North Korea's Deceptive Face

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 22:53:26 +0900

To the casual eye, things seem like they’re looking up in Pyongyang. But inequality has been growing.

Manila's Economic Headache

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:13:17 +0900

The Philippines has achieved economic growth, but it is extremely unequal. Aquino needs to make changes now.

ASEAN's Golden Goal

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 19:05:45 +0900

ASEAN is mulling making a joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup. Its chances depend on members working together.

Fiji Explores Its Options

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:21:13 +0900

Fiji’s ambassador to the United States discusses the country’s ties with ASEAN, China and the US.

Can Noda Get Win-Win Ties?

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 20:32:36 +0900

Japanese Prime Minister Noda Yoshihiko has said he wants win-win relations with China. Is it possible?

South Korea’s Arab Spring Role?

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:29:08 +0900

South Korea has more to offer transitioning Arab Spring countries than aid – it has plenty of experience.

Weibo, China and Japan

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 19:17:52 +0900

Microblogs like Weibo are helping to change Chinese perceptions of Japan. There’s little China’s censors can do.

SNS Democracy in Korea

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 15:58:10 +0900

Upcoming elections in South Korea offer social media the chance to really make its mark. But will populism rule?