From U.S. Regime Change to Chinese Economic Development

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s three-nation tour in the Middle East heralds a shift from U.S. regime change to economic development, codifying China’s presence in the Middle East as a major energy buyer, major importer, infrastructure builder, and peace broker.

Dan Steinbock, Research Director, India China and America Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1TweGmP

Chinese Economy in 2016: No Prospect of A Major Slump

China’s economy will continue to slide for some time in 2016, and the overall growth rate will be even lower than in 2015. However, the economy’s fundamental sectors portend a steady growth rate of 6.5-6.8%, depending on the progress of the reforms and restructuring, and on the developments of world economic situation. In any event, a major slump or “hard landing” seems out of the question.

He Weiwen, Co-director, China-US/EU Study Center, CAIT via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1KR5emZ

China Has No Desire for World Leadership

With no real threat to America’s position in the world, Beijing and Washington need to intensify their efforts to build trust and promote understanding. The best way to achieve that is to expand exchanges at all levels of society, a process that has been a triumph of diplomacy ever since a famous ping-pong game made headlines in 1970.

C.H.Tung Chairman, China-United States Exchange Foundation via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1UuF134

China’s Bumpy New Normal

China’s shift from export-driven growth to a model based on domestic services and household consumption has been much bumpier than some anticipated, with stock-market gyrations and exchange-rate volatility inciting fears about the country’s economic stability. Yet by historical standards, China’s economy is still performing well – at near 7% annual […]

Joseph E. Stiglitz Professor, Columbia University via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1NEIc2s

What Does the Year 2016 Hold for China-U.S. Relations in Cyberspace?

Sino-U.S. relations in cyberspace in 2016 will be defined by three key policies: attribution, sanctions, and norms. Franz-Stefan Gady discusses what each policy could look like, and also the reviews the cyber diplomacy between the two countries in 2015.

Franz-Stefan Gady Senior Fellow, EastWest Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1VqrQQT

False Alarm on China

The fears about the economic meltdown in China are overblown. The mismatch between progress in economic rebalancing and setbacks in financial reforms must ultimately be resolved as China transitions to new growth model. But it does not spell imminent crisis.

Stephen Roach, Faculty Member, Yale University via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1NzxSsC

Does the Prospect of RMB Depreciation Depend on What China’s Central Bank Wants?

Stabilizing the RMB exchange rate not only requires comprehensively striking back the short-selling speculation but, more importantly, reversing the expectation of RMB depreciation and well managing the expectation. Substituting a new exchange rate index for the old exchange rate index has not impressed the international market. The RMB exchange rate should be anchored to the USD exchange rate to build confidence.

Yi Xianrong, Researcher, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1NzhFna

China’s New Concept of Security

China-US cooperation is the critical factor for peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Regaining and maintaining security in the area is the common interest and common responsibility of both nations, and that is the basis of President Xi Jinping’s fresh approach.

Ni Shixiong, Professor, Fudan University via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1RKuPFu

Obama’s SOTU Address: A Sputnik Moment for China-U.S. Relations?

President Barack Obama’s last State of the Union speech sought to cement his personal achievements by stressing his contribution to the recovery of the United States post-2008, and the U.S. position of excellence compared to China.

Vasilis Trigkas Vsiting Research Fellow, Tsinghua University via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1PuDNH0

U.S. Election and Its Impact on China

Despite a history of China-bashing during US presidential elections, other concerns are capturing the attention of candidates and voters this year. That could make preserving the equilibrium between China and the US easier this time around, if the will is there in both capitals.

He Yafei former Vice Minister, State Council Office of Overseas Chinese Affairs via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1SGRW3X

Will China’s “Internet Plus” Agenda Contradict its Principles of Cyber-sovereignty?

China’s position on Internet governance is that the Internet is a mere reflection of physical space, and therefore should be subject to similar norms of non-external interference. After the Wuzhen Conference, the question on how to engage with China in the realm of cyberspace remains largely unanswered.

Rogier Creemers Research Officer, Programme for Comparative Media Law and Policy via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1VjQAtZ

Obama’s SOTU Address: A Sputnik Moment for China-U.S. Relations?

President Barack Obama’s last State of the Union speech sought to cement his personal achievements by stressing his contribution to the recovery of the United States post-2008, and the U.S. position of excellence compared to China.

Vasilis Trigkas Vsiting Research Fellow, Tsinghua University via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1PuDNH0

Gains and Losses in China-US Relations in 2015

As the two countries pursue a new major-power relationship, and China focuses on eliminating poverty for its citizens, there is more reason than ever for cooperation and easing mistrust. President Xi’s visit to the US was a herald for an expanding partnership, and issues like the South China Sea and third-party naysaying should not be allowed to disrupt relations.

Yu Sui, Professor, China Center for Contemporary World Studies via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1nztuot

No Good Ignoring Nuclear North Korea

The lesson of the DPRK’s latest nuclear test is that talking to North Korea offers a better hope of success than ignoring it. But then, that’s what Beijing has been telling the U.S. for a long time.

Doug Bandow, Senior Fellow, Cato Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1nosBzu

What Kind of Modern and Open Financial System Does China Need?

As it acts upon the 13th Five Year Plan, Beijing must combine government fiscal investment, corporate R&D, industrial investment, venture capital, bank credit investment, capital market financing, science funding and more, to make a financial system with a full range of support to update China’s economy. An efficiently operating system will be key to the nation’s future competitiveness.

Zhang Monan, Researcher, China Int'l Economic Exchanges Center via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1RyRTHb

China’s Foreign Policy in Transition: Proactive Approach Mirrors New Realities

Global developments have led China to take a more proactive approach in dealing with international issues in 2015 that saw China transition to practicing “major-country” diplomacy. As it becomes evident that U.S.-China relations are turning more contentious and competitive, the two countries must seek convergence of common interests, strengthen practical cooperation, properly handle disputes and avoid conflict and confrontation.

Cui Liru, Former President, CICIR via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1RyRULe

Hollywood’s Soft Power Is Hard to Copy

At first glance, China’s latest Hollywood deal, Wanda Group’s purchase of Legendary Entertainment, is a hardware-software match made in box-office heaven. However, creative success is quirky, subject to shifting tastes and capricious audience receptivity. More fundamentally, it is rooted in the exercise of free expression.

Philip Cunningham, visiting research fellow, Cornell University, New York via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1T0aGdW

Saudi-Iran Diplomatic Rupture Triggers Storm in Middle East

As the latest episode in regional conflict has unfolded, China has acted quickly on the diplomatic front, working with the United States and other major powers to reduce tension and resolve the Saudi-Iranian standoff through dialogue.

Wu Sike, Member on Foreign Affairs Committee, CPPCC via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/20aF6fy

What U.S. Must Learn in Dealing with A Changed World

As the new year dawns, the U.S. still struggles with the effort to shape the world with itself as the center. Resisting the opportunity to build a more positive relationship with China, underpinned by stronger and closer cooperation, keeps Washington trapped in the past, while many of its allies, including Britain, Europe, Canada and Australia, have embraced a multipolar world that is no threat to the U.S., except to its national ego.

Wang Yusheng, Executive Director, China Foundation for Int'l Studies via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1JbPX4V

Japan’s China-Aided Political Rise: How the U.S. Can Benefit

With Japan’s pride and nationalist impulse to play a bigger international role now rising, its domestic debate on national-security and constitutional reform is set to intensify. Although rising powers tend to be revisionist powers, a politically resurgent Japan, strikingly, is seeking to uphold the present Asian political and maritime order.

Brahma Chellaney, Professor, Center for Policy Research via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1WlD0Yc

No End to North Korean Conundrum in Sight

George Koo describes how a treaty between the U.S. and North Korea was within grasp until George W. Bush’s administration halted the proceedings. Since then, dealing with Pyongyang has become a blame game between the U.S. and China.

George Koo Board Member, New America Media via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1OzFAon

Both China and U.S. Need to Adjust Their Policies toward North Korea

Washington should propose a “grand bargain” to Pyongyang by formally ending the state of war on the Korean Peninsula, lifting of all except narrowly defined military sanctions against the North, and U.S. diplomatic recognition of the North Korean regime. In exchange, Pyongyang would agree to place its nuclear program under international safeguards and extend diplomatic recognition to South Korea.

Ted Galen Carpenter Senior Fellow, Cato Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1PeJXo0

How Chinese Mining Companies Work to Win over the Local Population

Chinese mining companies in Ecuador and Peru recognize the social, environmental, and political issues which occur with significant development, and is giving back to the community by building bridges, roads, health clinics, sewers, and water systems.

Walker Rowe, Publisher, Southern Pacific Review via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1OjEv5W

Daunting Challenges Ahead for 2016

In a world of troubles, the ongoing re-shaping of the world order and global governance will require a meeting of minds and concerted actions from big powers.

He Yafei Vice Minister, Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/230TU2Y

China Is Escaping Mostly Unscathed This Election Season

Although U.S. Republican presidential candidates have surpassed the pugnacity favored by their typically hawkish party, the candidates have been unusually soft spoken on China this year. China has been recognized by the Republicans as an adversary worthy of respect, and as a desirable partner in tackling regional problems.

Colin Moreshead, Freelancer in Tokyo via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1Rl8y0U

China-US Relationship in 2015

The success of the climate conference in Paris clearly shows that dialogue between Washington and Beijing can be serious and productive. There are new challenges in the year ahead, with elections in both Taiwan and the US, but the bilateral relationship is so important for international peace and security in the 21st century that we cannot afford to let it drift.

Wu Jianmin Former President, China Foreign Affairs University via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1RCaOBm

Head Tides Won’t Set Back Sino-U.S. Ties

From the Iran nuclear deal to the climate agreement in Paris, a new level of cooperation between Beijing and Washington signals that the pragmatic relationship dating from the Nixon administration is not threatened by changes in international conditions. A consensus is taking shape among celebrities, ordinary citizens, leaders and strategists in both countries that China and the US should not change their course of engagement and cooperation.

Chen Yonglong, Director, China Foundation for Int'l Studies via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/22TkmeI

Taiwan Arms Deal Aims To Reduce Cross-Strait Tensions

The recent U.S. arms sales decision regarding Taiwan led to a more moderate Chinese government reaction than seen in many previous transactions. The U.S. arms transfers to Taiwan serve multiple purposes and are likely to continue whoever is the leader of the next government in Taipei and in Washington.

Richard Weitz, Senior Fellow, Hudson Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1RyJNPo

U.S. Anti-Terror War on the Wrong Track

Having incubated the Daesh in its global war on terror, the US must take the responsibility to destroy it. Washington cannot sit back and expect the international community to defeat the Daesh forces without US leadership.

Wang Zhen Director of Security Studies Program, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1UKOq6c

Head Tides won’t Set Back Sino-U.S. Ties

From the Iran nuclear deal to the climate agreement in Paris, a new level of cooperation between Beijing and Washington signals that the pragmatic relationship dating from the Nixon administration is not threatened by changes in international conditions. A consensus is taking shape among celebrities, ordinary citizens, leaders and strategists in both countries that China and the US should not change their course of engagement and cooperation.

Chen Yonglong, Director, China Foundation for Int'l Studies via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/22TkmeI

‘Strategic patience’: Failed U.S. North Korea Policy

Republican presidential campaign frontrunner Donald Trump made hilarious and ridiculous remarks immediately after North Korea’s fourth nuclear test. President Obama may not publicly echo Mr. Trump’s view, but he may have applauded Mr. Trump’s argument privately. So here comes the next question: How will President Obama respond to the fourth […]

Mandy Peng via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1RnO1sM

2015 Sino-American Military Relationship and Beyond

Despite disorder in the world, China and the US are finding ways to minimize risks with their armed forces, while counter-terrorism and anti-piracy provide new opportunities for cooperation. While the bilateral relationship is intrinsically volatile and competitive, the two militaries have been remarkably adept at finding common protocols, even in contentious areas like the South China Sea.

Zhou Bo, Honorary Fellow, PLA Academy of Military Science via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1ZRn6XJ

China’s Economic Downturn May Be Headed for the U.S.

Quantitative easing may in part explain the destabilizing effects that the global economy is facing, with cheap credit continuing to fueling the expectation of ever-rising prices. The 2015 Chinese crash was a direct product of the U.S. financial crisis of 2008, which was itself the result of a bubble in financial, insurance, and real estate assets.

Ben Reynolds Writer and Foreign Policy Analyst in New York via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1Z9Ta6M

Historic Changes Encourage U.S. to Learn to Share with Others

In a new world order, in the interest of the US and the whole world, the Washington has to make continued efforts to work with others to deal with the complicated world challenges, otherwise the successes and progress already made – from Iran to Paris and into the future -- could be forfeited.

Wu Zurong, Research Fellow, China Foundation for Int'l Studies via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1OQjHQQ

Wuzhen Summit and Battle over Internet Governance

China used the World Internet Conference to promote its vision of Internet governance to an international audience and to defend the concept of cyber sovereignty. China will continue to push for multilateral internet governance, rather than multi-stakeholder internet governance, which can include private companies and other groups.

Franz-Stefan Gady Senior Fellow, EastWest Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1PLz28v

A Singapore Lesson for China: Two Children Are not Enough

A “two-child policy” like the “one-child policy” of population controls remains a powerful symbol of China’s efforts to control its people. As China has found with its stock exchanges, human behavior – like market forces – cannot be fully controlled or predicted, even by the most powerful bureaucrats of Beijing.

Curtis S. Chin, Former US Ambassador to Asian Development Bank via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1PLz28r

China’s New Promises to Africa

China offered a $60 billion package to support African development; individual Africans, especially those who are invited to train in China and those who Chinese technicians will assist in Africa, are sure to have their prospects enhanced.

Robert I. Rotberg, Fellow, Woodrow Wilson Int'l Center via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1Rqu56P

Russia-Turkey Dispute and Anti-Terror Situation in the Middle East

While Moscow-Ankara tensions are in the short-term spotlight, a different bilateral relationship will shape the outcome of Middle East conflicts. Should the militaries of Russia and US cooperate fully, the complete collapse of ISIS could be expected soon, as Russia’s foreign minister recently noted. Such a truly united front in the war on terrorism would be a gratifying achievement on the world stage.

Yu Sui, Professor, China Center for Contemporary World Studies via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1Rqu2Ig

Should China Consider the “Finland Option” for Taiwan?

Breaking the cycle of tension in the Taiwan Strait requires bold initiatives that mean abandoning deeply held desires in China, Taiwan, and the United States. Chinese leaders should perhaps at least think about the previously unthinkable: accepting an independent Taiwan—under very strict conditions.

Ted Galen Carpenter Senior Fellow, Cato Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1Rqu2I5

How Will China’s New 2-Child Policy Affect Working Women?

Since the announcement of the new policy, Chinese feminists have been concerned that women aren’t really given full freedom to choose whether to have a second child – or any child at all – due to cultural and public policy reasons.

Mathilda Lan Chinese reporter with a major international media organization via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1PHnbZa

Significance and Challenge of RMB’s Inclusion in the SDR Basket

Domestic and foreign markets believe that the relatively stable RMB is entirely the consequence of many interventions by China’s central bank for the sake of the inclusion of the RMB in the SDR basket. If China’s economic growth is still under a big downward pressure and the bank further imposes an easy monetary policy, the RMB will go through an increasing pressure of depreciation. Therefore, the inclusion of China’s currency in the SDR basket is a double-edge sword, and its significance and impact, particularly within the short term, should not be overestimated.

Yi Xianrong, Researcher, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1INP5mR

Lowering the Tension in South China Sea

Mutual suspicion between China and the US should be dissolved through dialogue and transparency. If China could brief America of Beijing’s reclamation moves beforehand in the future, and the US would abandon its approach of microphone diplomacy, accidents like the 2001 air collision and future conflict should be avoided in both countries’ interest.

Shen Dingli Associate Dean, Fudan University via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1INP5mK

Wuzhen Proposals will Boost Sino-US Cyber Cooperation

As big powers, China and the United States need to show restraint in cyberspace. The recent bilateral agreements on cyber issues are welcome steps that will enhance strategic stability. The announcements by Apple Pay to partner with China UnionPay and by Microsoft to work with Chinese researchers to develop the Windows 10 operating system are but two instances of growing Sino-US cooperation in the cyber sphere.

Tang Lan Deputy Director, Institute of Information and Social Development, CICIR via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1ILQxWQ

China Learns Conquering Africa Might Not be Worth the Cost

Western fears of Chinese domination in Africa appear overblown. African peoples have benefited economically, but unevenly; African dictators sometimes have benefited politically, though not crucially. While America’s role has shrunk, the U.S. remains the largest, most productive, and most attractive economic partner for African nations.

Doug Bandow, Senior Fellow, Cato Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1Rkh8vk

Michigan State University (MSU) Building Bridges with China

Chinese students face a sizable struggle adapting to the American learning environment and culture. As a way to attack these tough issues, Michigan State University's leadership has stepped up, seeking ways to build bridges that help connect its students and state with the broad world beyond its borders.

Tom Watkins, Advisor, University of Michigan Confucius Institute via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/1PGVzFr