South China Sea

For most of the 20th century, Japan and Australia had little reason to develop a relationship. However, China’s rise as a regional hegemon has the potential to bring the two countries closer. Ties have been established via the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, in which both countries take part. Closer cooperation could ...

Though China has gained influence in Southeast Asia, the United States still holds several advantages. The region has mixed feelings about the change of guard in Washington, and significant hurdles to better relations remain. Yet the new administration could reinforce the U.S. position if it reins in protectionist tendencies, engages ...

Though small and separated by vast distances, Pacific Island nations play a key role in Western military and diplomatic strategy. They host crucial bases and help provide international clout to allies like Taiwan. Like in other areas of the world, however, China has been flexing its muscles in the region, ...

Like a white knight, China stepped in after Portugal’s 2011 bankruptcy with billions of dollars in investment. After centuries of trade and cultural exchange, it helped the relationship between the two countries flourish. Now China sees Portugal as a crucial cog in its strategy to exert influence and expand trade ...