Brookings: Centers - Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies

Previewing President Obama's Trip to Asia and the APEC Forum

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:35:00 GMT

As President Obama prepares for his trip to China and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Singapore, Richard Bush says that the APEC meetings will help the United States fortify its relationships with Asian countries.

Taiwan's Economy: Recovery with Chinese Characteristics

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the inaugural installment of CNAPS’s Taiwan-U.S. Quarterly Analysis series, Terry Cooke explores the causes and effects of Taiwan’s pursuit of economic normalization with China. Articles in this series will be written by leading experts on the U.S.-Taiwan relationship and will contain in-depth analysis of bilateral and multilateral policy challenges for Taipei and Washington.

The China Awaiting President Obama

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As President Obama prepared for his first visit to China, expectations were high for growth in the U.S.-China relationship. In this Northeast Asia Commentary written prior to the president's visit, Nonresident Senior Fellow David Shambaugh analyzes today’s political and economic landscape in China. Shambaugh currently serves as a Senior Visiting Fulbright Scholar at the Institute of World Economics and Politics, a division of the China Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing.

The Hidden People of North Korea: Everyday Life in the Hermit Kingdom

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 10, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On November 10, Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Kongdan Oh and Ralph Hassig, adjunct associate professor of psychology at the University of Maryland University College, discussed their new book The Hidden People of North Korea: Everyday Life in the Hermit Kingdom (Rowman & Littlefield, 2009). For decades, the people of North Korea have lived in extreme isolation under a closed and repressive regime, where individual rights are restricted and the regime exercises complete control over the political class and legal systems.

Convergence and Divergence in Taiwan's U.S. Policy

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this CNAPS Working Paper, Liu Shih-chung examines the fluctuations in Taiwan-U.S. relations during 2004-2008. While outlining developments in the bilateral relationship, Liu provides an insider’s view of different influences on Taiwan’s policy-making process including the leadership, the bureaucracy, other internal political forces, and external actors such as China and the United States.

Obama Goes to Asia: Understanding the President’s Trip

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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November 06, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

In mid-November, President Barack Obama began his first trip to Asia as president with a visit to Tokyo. He also traveled to China, South Korea and Singapore, where took part in meetings of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. Prior to the president's trip, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies and the John L. Thornton China Center at Brookings hosted a discussion of President Obama’s trip and the issues he was likely to face.

Nuclear Renaissance and the U.S.-Japan Alliance: Finding New Markets and Preventing Proliferation

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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October 30, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On October 30, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings and the Slavic Research Center at Hokkaido University hosted experts from Japan and the United States for a conference looking at nuclear energy and nuclear nonproliferation. Topics included trends in international nuclear markets, the U.S. approach to nuclear energy and the future of nuclear nonproliferation.

After Kim Jong-il: Can We Hope for Better Human Rights Protection in North Korea?

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:30:00 GMT

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October 27, 2009, 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

On October 27, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies hosted a presentation by Kim Kwangjin of his report on North Korean succession and human rights issues. Mr. Kim defected from North Korea in 2003, and was previously manager of North Korea’s Northeast Asia Bank in Singapore and representative of the Korea National Insurance Corporation. This discussion also featured Roberta Cohen of Brookings and Bruce Klingner of the Heritage Foundation.

Same Rules, New Dimensions For Mongolia's National Security: Adapting to the New Geo-Economic Environment

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Since its peaceful Democratic Revolution in the early 1990s, Mongolia’s national security strategy has evolved through three phases and is now entering a fourth. Munkh-Ochir Dorjjugder writes that the theme of balancing external actors to ensure sovereignty and security remains the same, but that Mongolia is now adding economic and human elements to its approach to security.

Three Keys to Understanding Japan’s New Diplomacy

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The election of the new DPJ government is thought by many to herald a new approach to foreign policy in Tokyo. Former CNAPS Visiting Fellow Keiko Iizuka identifies and explains three keys to help understand the diplomacy that the Hatoyama government will conduct.

A Proposal for a "Bosworth Process" with North Korea: Denuclearization and Beyond

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After months of provocations by North Korea, conditions are now developing that should allow the U.S. Special Envoy, Stephen Bosworth, to visit Pyongyang. In this paper, Brookings Visiting Fellow Sun-won Park calls for a "Bosworth Process," a plan to achieve not only denuclearization of the Korean peninsula but also to bring North Korea into the international community in a far-sighted and peaceful way.

Opportunities for U.S.-ROK Alliance Cooperation: New Issues on the Agenda

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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October 08, 2009, 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On October 8, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings hosted an event featuring contributors from A Roadmap for Expanding U.S.-ROK Alliance Cooperation, produced by the Center for U.S.-Korea Policy at the Asia Foundation. At the event, the contributors presented their findings on expanding the U.S.-ROK alliance to cover such newly-emerging issues as pandemics and biological threats, counter-terrorism, and space cooperation.

Taiwan: The DPP’s Future Lies in Itself, Not in the KMT

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) recent landslide victory in Yunlin County’s legislative by-election has several implications for Taiwanese politics, writes Shih-chung Liu. He argues that while the victory is significant, a strengthened policy of reaching out to the world community and refining the party’s policies on future cross-strait and international relations is of utmost importance.

China on the Road to Prosperity

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

60 years after its founding, the People's Republic of China has achieved significant progress toward becoming a major and global power. Nonresident Senior Fellow David Shambaugh examines the contours of the nation's economic, social, political, and military development and considers some of the implications for China and the world.

Regional Multilateralism in Asia and the Korean Question

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Korean peninsula served as the battleground for an internationalized civil war from 1950-1953. Over a half-century later, the peninsula is still divided and the Korean question remains unresolved. In this CNAPS visiting fellow working paper, Wonhyuk Lim writes that placing Korean unification within the broader context of regional integration in Asia may be an effective geopolitical strategy for the Korean nation.

The Scouting Report: Dialing Down North Korea’s Nuclear Threat

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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August 05, 2009, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Former President Bill Clinton traveled to Pyongyang for a surprise meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il on Tuesday, and secured the release of two American reporters detained since March. This visit came at a tense time following North Korean nuclear and ballistic missile tests in the past months. Brookings expert Richard Bush and Politico's Fred Barbash took questions on the North Korea nuclear problem in this week’s edition of the Scouting Report.

The Changing Roles of Media in Taiwan's Democratization Process

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senior journalist and CNAPS Visiting Fellow Huang Ching-Lung writes that Taiwan’s media, despite major contributions to democratization, has come to play a controversial and often negative role in the democratization process. Factors such as market competition, lack of professional organization, and ties to political parties have lowered the quality social benefit of journalism in Taiwan, Mr. Huang writes.

Building Asia Pacific Regional Architecture

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Asia Pacific region has undergone fundamental changes since the Cold War. Once perceived as institutionally underdeveloped, a wide range of regional community building initiatives has transformed Asia’s institution-building and major power relations. Richard Weixing Hu, CNAPS visiting fellow, writes that this institutional proliferation now poses challenges to regional community building, and explores how a stable regional architecture may be constructed.

China Faces the Future

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:30:00 GMT

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July 14, 2009, 9:30 AM to 5:00:00 PM
July 15, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:15 PM

On July 14 and 15, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies (CNAPS) at Brookings and the Institute of International Relations (IIR) at Taiwan’s National Chengchi University hosted leading experts from Taiwan and the United States for the 38th Taiwan-U.S. Conference on Contemporary China.

Cross-Strait Relations Improve; China Still Deploys Missiles

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Taiwan and China have made impressive progress over the last year improving relations in the political and economic arenas, but China’s People’s Liberation Army has continued to procure and deploy equipment that puts Taiwan at risk. Richard Bush points out that the rate of growth is a bit less than previous years but it still raises the question, what is going on?

North Korea’s Nuclear and Missile Tests and the Six-Party Talks: Where Do We Go From Here?

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before Congress on June 17, senior fellow and CNAPS director Richard Bush described how North Korea’s recent nuclear and missile tests have transformed the challenge faced by the international system. Dr. Bush testified that it is now clear that North Korea bases its security on nuclear weapons, and the hope that it will abandon the nuclear option has disappeared.

China and Russia: When Giants Meet

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hu Jintao's recent visit to Moscow showed off the significant strides in bilateral relations between China and Russia. David Shambaugh notes that the real challenge for the United States and Europe is to engage both nations in a broader global partnership and to break the Beijing-Moscow duopoly that often splits the U.N. Security Council.

North Korea Collapse Scenarios

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iraq and Afghanistan continue to pre-occupy U.S. military planners. But North Korea, with its growing nuclear arsenal, would become America's paramount security challenge if the state were to collapse. Michael O’Hanlon writes that the United States and other nations must begin detailed and coordinated planning for stabilization in the event of collapse of the North Korean state.

New Global Trade Structures and the New Role of the U.S. Economy

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The response to the economic crisis by President Obama and American consumers indicate that global trade structures may be permanently altered. CNAPS Guest Scholar Naoki Abe explains that the government’s massive intervention in the economy will not be permanent, but that it must set the stage for the U.S. and other advanced economies to increase exports.

China and the U.S.-Japan Alliance

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For years, Americans and Japanese have discussed what their alliance should do in the post-Cold War era. CNAPS Director Richard Bush argues in the Yomiuri Shimbun that, with its response to the DPRK’s May 25 nuclear test, the U.S.-Japan alliance is fulfilling its most important strategic function: to help manage the rise of China.

China-Japan Tensions, 1995-2006: Why They Happened, What to Do

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

China-Japan relations have been markedly tense and constrained in recent history, especially in the decade following 1995. Richard Bush examines the deterioration of this relationship during that time from three different perspectives, identifies the underlying causes, and suggests steps that can be taken by both countries to further improve relations.

North Korea’s Nuclear Paradox

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On May 25, 2009, North Korea (DPRK) conducted its second underground nuclear test—believed to be larger than its 2006 test—and drew swift condemnation from the U.N. Security Council and many nations. Linbo Jin outlines the reasons why the DPRK persists in pursuing nuclear weapons in defiance of the international community.

President Obama's Response to North Korea's Nuclear Test

Wed, 27 May 2009 09:51:59 GMT

The United Nations Security Council, President Obama and other global leaders have condemned North Korea’s recent nuclear test and the launch of several short range missiles. Richard Bush, director of the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies, examines North Korea’s bold actions and considers how the United States might respond.

North Korea's Nuclear Bargain

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As North Korea continues to challenge the international community with its nuclear ambitions, Richard Bush examines Kim Jong Il's reasoning behind the nuclear test. Bush argues that North Korea's latest provocation is an attempt to frame de-nuclearization negotiations on the most favorable terms by putting the Obama administration on the defensive.

Simulation of a Crisis in the Taiwan Strait

Wed, 20 May 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 20, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
May 21, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Together with the ICONS Project at the University of Maryland, Brookings held a two-day exercise on May 20 and 21, 2009 simulating a crisis in the Taiwan Strait. Among other results, participants found that accidental war in the Taiwan Strait was less likely than an escalating crisis over real, substantive issues of importance to the two sides of the Strait.

Japanese Politics Today and the Impact on U.S.-Japan Relations

Thu, 14 May 2009 14:15:00 GMT

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May 14, 2009, 2:15 PM to 4:00 PM

On May 14, CNAPS hosted Robert “Skipp” Orr, chairman of the board of the Panasonic Foundation, for a presentation entitled “Japanese Politics Today and the Impact on U.S.-Japan Relations.” Dr. Orr discussed the current state of affairs in Japanese politics, the upcoming general elections, and the economic climate in Japan.

The U.S.-Japan Alliance: Beyond Northeast Asia

Fri, 08 May 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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May 08, 2009, 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM

A transformed alliance of the world’s two largest economies—Japan and the United States—could have far-reaching effects on issues such as trade, development, climate change and international security. On May 8, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings and the Slavic Research Center at Hokkaido University hosted a forum to examine the U.S.-Japan alliance and its potential for addressing issues beyond the Northeast Asia region.

Human Rights in North Korea: Some Recommendations for the Obama Administration

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The North Korean human rights record is one of the most egregious in the world, yet the United States has not to date found an effective way to address the issue. Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Roberta Cohen proposes to the Obama administration the development of a strategy for integrating human rights into any future dealings with North Korea, be they multilateral or bilateral.

Beyond the Strait: PLA Missions Other Than Taiwan

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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April 30, 2009, 2:00 PM to 4:15 PM

On April 30, chapter authors from Beyond the Strait: PLA Missions Other Than Taiwan, co-produced by the Strategic Studies Institute of the U.S. Army War College, The National Bureau of Asian Research, and the Bush School of Government at Texas A&M University, presented their findings examining the People’s Liberation Army's varied missions at this event held at the Brookings Institution.

Thoughts on the Taiwan Relations Act

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Thirty years ago this month, the U.S. Congress passed the Taiwan Relations Act, which President Carter signed on April 12th, 1979. Richard Bush writes that this anniversary, with the hindsight of thirty years’ experience, is a good occasion to reflect on what the TRA has accomplished and what it means for the future.

An Address by the Hon. Shinzo Abe: A New Era Requires New Political Will

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:30:00 GMT

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April 17, 2009, 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM

On April 17, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings hosted former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan for an address on key issues facing Japan, the United States and the world.

2009 Seoul-Washington Forum: The Future of U.S.-Republic of Korea Relations

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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April 16, 2009, 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM

On April 16, leading experts from South Korea and the United States addressed the economic and military relationship between the two countries during the third annual Seoul-Washington Forum at the Brookings Institution. Brookings Senior Fellow Richard Bush, director of the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies, provided introductory remarks and moderated the discussion.

Economic Downturn and Instability in China: Time for Political Reform?

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though China’s economy is continuing to grow, the global economic crisis is contributing to rising unemployment there and increasing the potential for instability. Former CNAPS Visiting Fellow Ray Yep writes that the Chinese government is unlikely to heed calls for political reform in this climate, but will seek to soothe the discontented by economic means.

North Korea’s Third Missile Launch and Kim Jong-il’s Miscalculation

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Seeking to demonstrate its nuclear deterrent and win negotiating points from the United States and others, North Korea launched a long-range ballistic missile on April 5, 2009. CNAPS Visiting Fellow Sun-won Park writes that, contrary to Pyongyang’s calculations, this incident does not demonstrate North Korea’s strength or self-reliance but should be perceived as a tactical and strategic failure.

The Mind of Kim Jong Il

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Richard Bush offers insight into what North Korea's Kim Jong Il may be thinking on several key issues including the recent missile launch tests and the new U.S. administration of President Barack Obama.

Japan’s Lost Decade: Lessons for the United States

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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March 26, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:20 PM

On March 26, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies and the Initiative on Business and Public Policy at Brookings, in collaboration with Nikkei and the Japan Center for Economic Research, hosted leading Japanese and American experts to discuss Japan's experience and its lessons for the United States.

North Korea’s Third Attempt To Launch a Long-Range Missile and the Last Opportunity To Prevent It

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

North Korea recently announced plans to launch a long-range missile in early April. CNAPS Visiting Fellow Sun-won Park analyzes the different motivations behind Pyongyang’s plans for an April launch, concludes that there is a window of opportunity for American diplomacy to induce North Korea to postpone or cancel it, and describes steps that may lead to this result.

Cross-Strait Moderation and the United States

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Responding to an article by Robert Sutter, Richard Bush and Alan Romberg examine cross-Strait relations between Taiwan and China, including the role the U.S. plays. Bush and Romberg dissect Sutter's comments and where they disagree and offer solutions for better relations between all parties involved.

Democratization and the Transformation Process in East Asian Development States: Focus on Financial Reform in Korea and Taiwan

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow working paper, Haeran Lim explores the effects of democratization on the transformation process of East Asian developmental states, focusing on financial reform in Korea and Taiwan after the Asian financial crisis of 1997-1998. Despite their similarities, Korea and Taiwan have taken different paths of reform, which resulted in different outcomes.

Taiwan and China Make Strides: Can America Respond?

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the year since his election, Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou has improved Taiwan’s economic relations with China, with the goal of improving both Taiwan’s economic health and cross-strait relations. Rupert Hammond-Chambers writes that the United States must seize this opportunity and deepen its economic engagement with Taiwan, for the sake of its own economic interests and for long-term cross-strait development.

The Six-Party Process, Regional Security Mechanisms, and China-U.S. Cooperation

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Even though the six-party process focuses on Korean denuclearization, it has also served as a catalyst for the future of Asia-Pacific security cooperation. In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Pang Zhongying writes that China and the U.S. should extend their positive cooperation on Korean denuclearization into the realm of regional security, and develop a mechanism that ensures peace, stability and prosperity.

Secretary Clinton's Asia Visit: It's Tokyo’s Turn to Respond

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Keiko Iizuka writes that by choosing Japan as her first official overseas visit, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has successfully sent a clear message that the Obama administration places a great deal of importance on its relationship with Japan. Iizuka believes it is now Tokyo's turn to respond as the world's number two economy and "the cornerstone" of U.S. policy in the Asia-Pacific.

Secretary Clinton’s Visit to China and Planning for Future Cooperation on Afghanistan and North Korea

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is visiting four Asian countries this week, including China, and speculation about the issues she will discuss has become a major topic. Hao Zheng discusses how the U.S. and China can cooperate on the reconstruction of Afghanistan and the nuclear crisis in North Korea.

Secretary Clinton: Seeking Balance between Taipei and Beijing

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Shih-chung Liu writes at the onset of Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's trip to Asia that when she arrives in Beijing on the last stop of her journey, she should bring a commitment from Washington to the symmetry of cross-strait relations between China and Taiwan.

Asia Still Likes America

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Secretary of State Hillary Clinton tours East Asia this week she may find something surprising: respect for the United States remains strong. David Shambaugh and Thomas Wright explore the positive attitudes emanating from the region toward the U.S., and they note that this is an invaluable asset given the current need for cooperation regarding the global economic crisis.

East Asia in the Spotlight: Secretary of State Clinton’s First Trip Abroad

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:30:00 GMT

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February 12, 2009, 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

The Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies and the John L. Thornton China Center hosted a discussion on Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s first trip abroad. Secretary Clinton will visit Japan, Indonesia, South Korea and China and is expected to address the challenges facing the international community, including the global financial crisis, humanitarian issues, regional security and climate change.

Continuity and Change in Korea: Challenges for Regional Policy and U.S.-Russia Relations

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Georgy Toloraya writes that the United States and the other parties concerned must begin to consider three key issues as they seek to convince North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons program: the future of the North Korean state, the basis of its long-term security, and the shape of a new regional security order.

Turning Back the Clock: Attempts to Reclaim Control in North Korea after 2004

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:00:00 GMT

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February 11, 2009, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

On February 11, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings and the U.S.-Korea Institute at SAIS hosted Dr. Andrei Lankov for a presentation on the North Korean government’s attempt at reestablishing its control and reversing the changes that occurred in the decade after Kim Il Sung's death.

The Economic Crisis and its Impact on the Chinese People’s Liberation Army

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Little attention has been given to the impact of the economic crisis on China’s national defense, or to its potential impact on the Chinese People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA). In this Brookings Northeast Asia Commentary, Kristen Gunness examines the effects of the economic environment on the PLA in three particular areas: the defense budget, domestic unrest, and civil-military relations.

U.S. Inauguration Inspires, Worries Taiwan

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To the Taiwanese, the swearing-in of the 44th president of the US, Barack Obama, on Jan. 20 was a moment of profound inspiration and deep anxiety. CNAPS visiting fellow Shih-chung Liu examines the concerns of Taiwan regarding the future of their relationship with the U.S. under president Obama.

Democratic Consolidation in the Republic of Korea: Progress and Challenges

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 08:45:00 GMT

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February 02, 2009, 8:45 AM to 4:45 PM

The Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings, the Asian Studies Center at the Heritage Foundation and the Seoul National University’s Institute for Korean Political Studies and the Political Science BK21 Project hosted a symposium to examine South Korea's progress over the last 20 years in building its democratic institutions.

Global Economic Crisis: Made in America

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

‘Buy American’ provisions may provide job security to some, but Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Nayan Chanda says protectionism will stunt global trade. Chanda urges world leaders to stay calm in the face of a raging storm, while trying to stimulate the economy without triggering a new wave of protectionism.

American Soft Power in Asia

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

CNAPS Director Richard Bush argues that American soft power in East Asia is diminished but not exhausted. Our postwar record, the goodwill of friends in the region and the special character of the 2008 presidential election create a basis on which to restore it. This is a strategic opportunity that should not be missed, says Bush.

Currency Conversion during Korean Unification

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As rumors about Kim Jong-il’s health focus attention on the future of the Korean peninsula, CNAPS Nonresident Fellow Yeongseop Rhee examines issues in South-North monetary integration, a vital aspect of unification. The success – or failure – of monetary integration will have major effects on the peninsular economy, the standard of living in the North, and the South’s appetite for unification.

China and the U.S.: A Marriage of Convenience

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

January 1 marked the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and the United States. David Shambaugh writes that after three often rocky decades of interaction, the United States and China seem to have settled into a "mature marriage."

Human Rights, Asia and the New Administration

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

December 10 marks the 60^th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly. Catharin Dalpino writes that the Obama administration will face unprecedented challenges in the promotion of human rights in Asia, but is also likely to find new opportunities and should adopt a fresh approach.

Challenges in Alliance Management between Washington and Seoul

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Issues in its relationship with the United States often become domestic political problems for the South Korean government, to far a greater extent than for Washington. CNAPS Visiting Fellow Park Sun-won describes the various policy forces in Korea, explores their expectations of the U.S., and prescribes some steps for the two governments to maintain stability in the alliance.

Cross-Strait Relations and Implications for Northeast Asia: Views from the Region

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

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December 04, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On December 4, at the Institute of International Relations in Taipei, seven current and former CNAPS Visiting Fellows from around Northeast Asia presented regional views of the evolving relationship between Taiwan and China and identified implications of recent trends. The discussion was moderated by CNAPS Director Richard Bush.

Cross-Strait Economic and Political Relations and the Obama Administration

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 08:00:00 GMT

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December 03, 2008, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

CNAPS and the Epoch Foundation organized this conference examining cross-strait relations and U.S. policy toward Asia at a time of political change in Taiwan and the United States. Three panels, featuring Brookings and CNAPS scholars as well as other experts, analyzed U.S. policy, cross-Strait relations, and the economy of mainland China. Brookings President Strobe Talbott and Vincent Siew, vice president of the Republic of China, provided keynote remarks.

Strategies for a Cross-Strait Truce

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Since taking office in May, Taiwanese President Ma Ying-Jeou has placed normalization of cross-strait relations at the top of his agenda. However, CNAPS Visiting Fellow Shih-chung Liu believes Ma must avoid the many potential pitfalls that await.

China’s New Foray into Latin America

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

China is increasingly forming trade, investment, technology, security, and cultural ties with Latin American nations. David Shambaugh notes that while ties are expanding rapidly in many spheres, not all of this expansion is positive from the Latin American perspective.

The Revival of China as a Great Power and What It Means for the United States

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An important part of China's rise involves U.S.-China relations and power transitions between the two countries. In a speech at Towson State University, CNAPS Director Richard Bush addresses these issues and explores challenges they may create for the United States, China, and the rest of the world.

APEC: The Challenge of Remaining Relevant

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As leaders from around the Asia-Pacific gather in Peru for the APEC summit on November 22-23, former CNAPS Visiting Fellow Richard Weixing Hu writes in the Brookings Northeast Asia Commentary that APEC’s relevance could be jeopardized by its hollow dialogue agendas and competition from the growing number of regional community building projects.

Securing Japan

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

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November 12, 2008, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM

For the past sixty years, most analysts have assumed that Japan's security policies would reinforce American interests in Asia. The political and military profile of Asia is changing rapidly, however. In this presentation, Dr. Richard Samuels argues that North Korea's renewed nuclear program, China's rise, and the relative decline of U.S. power have commanded strategic review in both Tokyo and Washington, and while Japan is becoming more muscular, it is also clinging to the alliance.

World in Crisis: Charting A Way Out

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:30:00 GMT

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November 10, 2008, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On November 10, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings hosted Ambassador Ichiro Fujisaki of Japan for an address on the acute financial and environmental crises facing the world. Ambassador Fujisaki offered insights and approaches to these issues and outline where Japan and the world should be headed.

Seeking a Cross-strait Diplomatic Truce: Theory and Practice

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:00:00 GMT

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October 30, 2008, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou has proposed a “diplomatic truce” between Taiwan and China, in which the practice of competitive checkbook diplomacy would be replaced by engagement between the two sides. In this presentation, CNAPS Visiting Fellow Liu Shih-chung explores the early results of President Ma’s proposal and discusses some of the factors that influence Taiwan’s decisions on diplomacy and cross-strait policy.

North Korea: Planning for After the Kims

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There has been much speculation over the declining health of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il in recent weeks. Kongdan Oh writes that it is imperative to prepare for the eventual collapse of the Kim regime and that regime change in North Korea can open the way for an end to the Cold War on the Korean peninsula and build the foundation of a democratic and unified Korea that will influence the region.

Global Financial Crisis: What Should the U.S. Show the World?

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

CNAPS Nonresident Fellow Yeongseop Rhee writes that the current financial crisis calls to mind the 1997-1998 Asian crisis. At that time, the U.S. and international organizations blamed Asian countries for their plight and prescribed harsh measures for fixing the situation. Dr. Rhee argues that now the U.S. must follow its own advice to maintain its leadership position.

U.S.- ROK: The Forgotten Alliance

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Though North Korea receives far more attention in the media, South Korea – a major trading partner and military ally – is far more important to the United States. As defense leaders from the United States and South Korea meet for the 40^th annual Security Consultative Meeting, Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Kongdan Oh writes that Washington and Seoul must recast their alliance.

Obama, McCain Camps Impact on Taiwan

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Liu Shih-Chung analyzes the similarities and differences between the Taiwan policies of John McCain and Barack Obama.

Recruitment, Training and Education in China’s 80-year-old Military

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 17, 2008, 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On September 17, chapter authors from The “People” in the PLA: Recruitment, Training, and Education in China’s 80-year Old Military, co-produced by the Strategic Studies Institute of the U.S. Army War College and The National Bureau of Asian Research, presented their findings, examining the human capital of China’s military at this event.

Taiwan: Tsai Works to Convince the U.S. of Democratic Progressive Party Change

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Shih-chung Liu discusses Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Chairwoman Tsai Ing-wen's recent visit to the United States. Liu believes that Tsai's visit shows that the DPP has found a new sense of responsibility toward relations with the U.S. and that her party is interested in rebuilding broken relations.

From Georgia to Taiwan

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In light of the recent conflict in Georgia, comparisons have been made between U.S. approaches toward Georgia and Taiwan. Richard Bush and Ken Lieberthal argue that the different outcomes illustrate the danger of sending mixed messages, and that American commitment should be carefully shaped around sober analysis of American capabilities and interest and the competing goals and interests of other major players.

Fukuda's Resignation: A Pandora’s Box for the Japan-U.S. Alliance?

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda’s abrupt resignation on September 1 illustrated continuing instability in Japanese politics, and may help force his Liberal Democratic Party to lose control of the government. Keiko Iizuka writes that a new government could encourage debate and enact policies that will place severe strain on the Japan-U.S. alliance.

Normalizing Japan: Politics, Identity and the Evolution of Security Practice

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:15:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 10, 2008, 12:15 PM to 1:45 PM

On September 10, CNAPS hosted Dr. Andrew L. Oros for a presentation on his recent book, Normalizing Japan: Politics, Identity and the Evolution of Security Practice. Dr. Oros argues that Japanese security policy has not changed as much in recent years as many believe, and that future change also will be highly constrained by Japan's long-standing "security identity."

The Beijing Olympics and China’s Soft Power

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Though Chinese strategic thinking has long included concepts similar to “soft power,” it is a new field of international cooperation and competition for the Chinese government. Former CNAPS Visiting Fellow Pang Zhongying writes that the 2008 Beijing Olympics were an important milestone in China’s exploration of soft power.

Avoid Negative Sound Bites on Beijing

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the Beijing Olympic Games and the U.S. political conventions draw near, Jeffrey Bader and Richard Bush write that Barack Obama and John McCain should avoid condemning China and politicizing complex human issues. Instead, they argue that both presidential candidates should signal their intention to engage China's leaders and find ways to advance human rights through “discreet encouragement.”

U.S. Policy in Asia: Meeting Opportunities and Challenges

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 28, 2008, 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM

On July 28, 2008, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies hosted an event featuring remarks by Deputy Secretary of State John D. Negroponte on U.S. policy toward Asia and its evolution in light of the major political, economic, and security trends shaping the region.

China's Spring and Summer

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 08, 2008, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On July 8, CNAPS and the John L. Thornton China Center hosted James Miles, The Economist‘s China correspondent, for a conversation about recent events in China which has faced a number of very public challenges, including the devastating earthquake affecting hundreds of thousands of Chinese citizens. At the same time, China is completing its preparations for the upcoming Beijing Olympic Games. What impact have these events had on the growth of Chinese nationalism? Have they influenced the relationship between the people of China and the Communist Party? Is China’s stability being affected?

North Korea's Nuclear Declaration

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With North Korea now releasing information on its nuclear program and the Bush Administration stating that it will lift sanctions and remove North Korea from its list of terrorist states, Jeffrey Bader and Richard Bush offer their comments on both actions and offer recommendations for future U.S. policy. Bader and Bush say that North Korea will first need to allow on-the-ground verification at its nuclear sites.

The Balancing Act Across the Taiwan Strait

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cross-strait relations under the Ma administration are off to a good start, but it is only a start. Richard Bush writes that the two sides should be pleased with the Chiang-Chen meetings in Beijing last week, but they should remember that they have embarked on a long and complicated process of re-engagement.

Soft Power in East Asia

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 17, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On June 17, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies (CNAPS) at Brookings and the Chicago Council on Global Affairs hosted a seminar to announce and examine the findings of a groundbreaking public opinion survey on the current and potential use of soft power in East Asia by the United States, China, Japan and South Korea.

Asian Regionalism, Strategic Evolution, and U.S. Policy in Asia

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Since the Asian financial crisis began in 1997, momentum toward regionalism in East Asia has increased and the process has become more Asia-centric. In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Liu Fu-Kuo traces the development of the new East Asian regionalism, with a special look at the consequences of excluding Taiwan from multilateral institutions.

Disaster Standards Needed in Asia

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this Brookings Northeast Asia Commentary, Nonresident Senior Fellow Roberta Cohen calls for the development of performance standards for addressing natural disasters including the cyclone in Burma, earthquake in China, and famine in North Korea. Without such standards, states and the international community may be hampered in saving lives and reconstruction efforts.

Perceptions of U.S. Foreign Policy in East Asia

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 03, 2008, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On June 3, the Brookings Institution hosted a discussion with the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies (CNAPS) visiting fellows who are completing their academic year at Brookings. They discussed their views of U.S. foreign policy and current relations between their countries and the U.S.

The Japanese State Identity as a Grand Strategic Imperative

Tue, 20 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Confronting a rising China, Japanese strategic thinkers are already changing their geo-strategic calculations, and will soon have to redefine the Japanese state identity, the basis of its geo-strategic choices. In this CNAPS Working Paper, 2006-2007 Visiting Fellow Masahiro Matsumura discusses the development of Japan’s state identity and examines its future strategic options.

China, Taiwan and U.S. Policy in Northeast Asia

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Richard Bush joined the International Affairs Forum to discuss China's increased military spending, Taiwan, and Chinese nationalism on display as the Beijing Olympics near. Bush concludes by offering suggestions to the next president of the United States regarding a future approach toward East Asia.

China's Competing Nationalisms

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

David Shambaugh details conflicting nationalism within China. He argues that there is a defensive form, based on historical context, which has been seen in virulent reactions from the government as the Olympic torch is welcomed by protests around the world. He concludes that China must focus on its proud and confident form, which sees China as a growing world power that is capable, strong, and self-assured.

Implications of the 2008 Taiwan Presidential Election for Cross-Strait Relations

Fri, 02 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Taiwan will inaugurate its new president, Ma Ying-jeou, on May 20, providing a strategic opportunity to transform relations between Taiwan and China. CNAPS Director Richard Bush argues that such a transformation will yield an important reduction of mutual fear and suspicion. There are obstacles, but courage should trump caution in Taipei and especially in Beijing.

Digital Democracy: How the American and Hong Kong Civil Societies Use New Media to Change Politics

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic participation faces challenges in many modern societies, including the United States and Hong Kong. In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow working paper, Dr. Rikkie Yeung examines how the American and Hong Kong civil societies have explored the use of new media to promote democratic participation and change political realities.

Main Trends of Russia’s Foreign Policy in Transforming East and Southeast Asia

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As Russia’s global influence has risen in recent years, its policies toward East and Southeast Asia have become reanimated. In this Brookings Northeast Asia Commentary, Russian scholar Vladimir Kolotov outlines the evolving strategic landscape in East Asia, highlighting the crucial position occupied by Vietnam, and explores Russia’s priorities for the region under President-elect Dmitry Medvedev.

The Emerging Architecture for Security and Cooperation in Northeast Asia

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

James Goodby believe the outlook for the Korean Peninsula is far from bleak, but top-level leadership in all countries will be required if 2008 is to see significant progress toward a new system for peace and security in Northeast Asia.

Taiwan’s Elections and What They Mean

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 27, 2008, 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM

The people of Taiwan elected a new president who favors closer ties with Beijing. Leading experts from Taiwan, the United States and China including representatives from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and Kuomintang (KMT) took part in a seminar examining the results of the elections, what they say about Taiwan’s current politics and its continued political and democratic development and the implications of the election and referendums for relations among Taiwan, the United States and China.

Advancing Sino-U.S. Energy Cooperation Amid Oil Price Hikes

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

China and the United States share the challenges of sustaining economic growth and affordable energy, but their joint efforts have achieved little beyond understanding each other’s positions on various energy issues. CNAPS Visiting Fellow Richard Weixing Hu argues that dialogues should include more substantive discussion on energy cooperation by addressing strategic anxieties, energy efficiency and the price of oil.

Inauguration of Lee Myung-bak: Grappling with Korea’s Future Challenges

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

On February 25, Lee Myung-bak will be inaugurated as the tenth president of the Republic of Korea. President Lee will have to reach across party and social lines to manage challenges in the economy, relations with the United States and other foreign powers, inter-Korean engagement, and—not least—South Korea’s uncertain political environment.