The Indo-Pacific is a strategic system encompassing the Indian and Pacific oceans, reflecting the expanding interests and reach of China and India as well as the enduring role of the US. The Lowy Institute's International Security program presents a weekly selection of links illuminating the changing security picture in this increasingly connected super-region.
- Philip Stevens in the Financial Times is arguing that a 'frosty peace' is in store for the US and China because the US has abandoned the goal of bringing China in as a 'stakeholder in the present global order.'
- Stephen Walt on whether China should be at the centre of a US grand strategy.
- Also, is China trying to shift from its reliance on US bonds through direct investment in initiatives like the One Belt, One Road plan?
- It seems the US is continuing to float the idea of joint patrols with Japanese air and naval forces in the South China Sea.
- Two op-eds: Prime Minister Abe on why the US and Japan should 'lead in the Pacific' and another from Minxin Pei, who argues the new US-Japanese Joint Defence Guidelines will anger Beijing.
- Interesting things have been happening in Sri Lanka geopolitically over the last several months. Kadira Pethiyagoda says it is a case-study for rising powers.
- Michael Krepon reviews a new collection of essays published by the Stimson Center on deterrence stability in South Asia.
- Finally, 'the one and only' Xi Jinping (h/t Bill Bishop):