Posts From Qi Lin
Competition between China and India heats up in the Maldives
The growing political turmoil in the Maldives could become a major point of conflict between India and China, as the regional giants support opposite sides of a rapidly evolving political crisis.
The revival of Asia’s quadrilateral security dialogue
A meeting between senior officials from the United States, India, Japan, and Australia took place in Manila on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit to discuss regional and global cooperation.
Gains from inter-Korean Olympic diplomacy at risk without U.S. engagement
To extend the temporary Olympics thaw into a long-term opportunity, the U.S. and South Korea have to work together. However, it seems likely that Seoul and Washington will remain divided on the path ahead.
China, South Korea reset bilateral ties
The two countries have made some progress, and this development is an important step in terms of North Korea-related security issues, but underlying differences remain and a continued positive trajectory is not yet certain.
Money talks: China’s belt and road initiative in Cambodia
With the influx of Chinese capital, Cambodia will find itself drawn further into the sphere of China’s economic and strategic influence.
Japan’s strategic counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative
Japan is making significant plays to counter China’s expanding influence by cooperating with India and the United States on ports and high-speed road networks from Asia to Africa.
China’s growing presence ratchets tensions in Sri Lanka
Holding a key position along strategic maritime routes, Sri Lanka has drawn a high level of economic investment. China and India, long-time competitors for influence in the Indian Ocean, have brought their geopolitical competition to the ports of Sri Lanka – and raised social unrest risks locally in the process.
Will Trump’s Asia tour fix America’s Southeast Asia problem?
Trump’s Asia tour is a chance to present a more concrete US strategy, to reassure allies, and to shape the region’s geopolitics in America’s favor.
What Xi’s report to the 19th Party Congress tells us about a more assertive China
The 19th Party Congress offers valuable insight into the foundation, new direction, and priorities of Chinese policy for the next five years.
Can Trump reverse Thailand’s drift towards China?
By emphasizing “America First,” Trump has been able to reengage Thai military leaders. But will this be enough to turn back Thailand’s closeness to China?