US-ASEAN Relations: Uncertainty and Opportunity
By David Han
Synopsis
The recent US-ASEAN summit held last month underscores US commitment to Southeast Asia. Although it is uncertain whether this commitment would endure beyond the Obama administration, it is likely to continue due to the economic opportunity and security importance of the Asia-Pacific.
ASEAN Centrality: Still Alive and Kicking
By Henrick Z. Tsjeng
Synopsis
ASEAN centrality has been challenged by the pulls of US-China tensions of late. Developments behind the scenes, and the recent United States-ASEAN Special Leaders’ Summit at Sunnylands, however, demonstrate the continuing validity of the centrality dynamic.
China’s “Informationised Warfare”: Impact on the Region
By Richard A. Bitzinger
Synopsis
China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has undertaken many significant reforms in recent months to better fight and win “informationised wars”. This is coupled with an aggressive behaviour driven by a sense of victimisation, as seen in Beijing’s posture over maritime territorial disputes. This invites offsetting actions on the part of the region.
Resuming the Six-Party Talks?: Bleak Prospects
By Tan Ming Hui
Synopsis
The Six-Party Talks to resolve North Korea’s nuclear crisis continues to be stalled after nearly seven years. China’s favoured diplomatic approach to deescalate regional tensions temporarily will do little to resolve the crisis if Beijing hesitates to wield a firm hand and rein its neighbour in.