News
Nancy Pelosi did not only receive approval for her Taiwan visit. There was criticism, especially from Asia, but also from other parts of the world. The accusation was that the speaker of the US House of Representatives had shaken geopolitical stability out of self-interest. Partly because nationalism is on the rise in China, Beijing could feel compelled to make amends for letting Pelosi have her way.
By Frank Sieren
The repercussions of Pelosi's trip not only affect China and Taiwan, but also all other neighboring countries. Above all, Japan finds itself in the conflict zone. The ASEAN states criticize both China and the trip of the US politician.
By Christiane Kuehl
In addition to its security-driven strategy in the Indo-Pacific, the US finally introduced an economic component in form of IPEF (Indo-Pacific Economic Framework) aimed at reducing China’s economic dominance. However, this will be difficult to achieve given the strong dependence of IPEF members on China and the preference among ASEAN countries to hedge between US and China.
By Redaktion Table
While the West sharply criticizes China and Russia, the majority of Asian countries do not want to be drawn to either side in the power triangle between Russia, China and the West. This became evident from the joint statements between the United States and Pacific states during Joe Biden's first trip to Asia.
By Frank Sieren
Joe Biden will travel to Asia for the first time since he took office as US president. Despite the Ukraine war, the dispute with China remains an important element of US policy. Washington wants to prevent China from attacking the Western-dominated "rules-based order". To its allies in the region, Washington wants to make new economic cooperation palatable.
By Christiane Kuehl
ASEAN nations have declined an invitation to a summit in Washington on short notice. The Southeast Asian states do not want to be forced to side with the West in the conflict with Russia. This is because the balance of power in Asia tends to shift toward China.
By Frank Sieren
In January, a huge economic free-trading area will be established with the RCEP. What was intended to be a free trade agreement of the Southeast Asian confederation ASEAN, now mainly benefits China, Japan and South Korea. In this way, the People's Republic is becoming part of a regional free trade agreement for the first time.
By Christiane Kuehl