Vietnam’s great power balancing act
Vietnam' astute balancing act in maintaining harmonious great power relations will become increasingly important in the face of new challenges…
Infrastructure diplomacy the key to China’s influence in Africa
China’s architectural gifts in Africa symbolise powerful diplomatic engagement and reinforce China’s role as a global player capable of shaping…
Solid processes yield mixed outcomes in US–East Asia relations
A focus on meetings and processes belies the Biden administration’s mixed results and lack of grand strategy in East Asia.…
Cambodia’s strategic positioning between the United States and China
For the new Hun Manet government, as long as there are no major domestic political threats to his rule, Cambodia…
Diplomatic shifts belie continuity in North Korea
2023 saw North Korea undergo changes in diplomacy and policy, though none of these substantially change the country’s international posture…
China’s political shakeup in 2023
China entered 2023 emerging from one sea of troubles, only to find itself embroiled in another. The lifting of COVID-19-related…
Cambodia strengthens ties with Japan amid US–China tensions
2023 marked 70 years of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Japan. To commemorate this anniversary, Phnom Penh and Tokyo elevated…
Keeping the IPEF afloat is in Indonesia’s interest
Regardless of the IPEF outcome, partaking in its negotiations will solidify Indonesia’s status as a reliable and inclusive trade partner,…
How a Chinese railway helped Jokowi cement his infrastructure legacy
Indonesia’s new high-speed rail system signals to Southeast countries that the Belt and Road Initiative remains a viable option for…
North Korean embassy closures point to struggle and starvation
Though a string of embassy closures points to financial hardships and food shortages in North Korea, Kim Jong-un will continue…