Rising Powers Commentary

China Digs in to Afghanistan

Washington is packing its bags, but Beijing looks set to stay in AfPak for the long haul.

NATO Looks to the Caucasus

Strategically important to Afghanistan, Iran and a host of other issues, NATO should pay attention to Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia.

Set South Korea Free

Washington has kept the ROK dependent for too long. Let Seoul increase its military efforts.

The Chinese Are Coming!

Beijing is building schools and stadiums in the Caribbean. Washington should avoid the temptation to overreact. 

The Cost of Clashing with Beijing

What the Chen Guangcheng incident means for U.S.-China relations.

Small-Stick Diplomacy in the South China Sea

A recent action off the Phillipines has all eyes on China's rising naval prowess. But non-naval services also support Beijing's maritime strategy.

U.S. Confuses Carrots and Sticks in Pakistan

Washington is offering a massive reward for information on a Pakistani militant. The move will be coolly received in Islamabad. 

Brazil's Erratic Behavior

Despite many convergent interests, there are good reasons for Washington to keep Brasília at arm's length.

The Mythical Sino-Islamic Nexus

China's strengthening ties with Middle Eastern nations are about energy, not an anti-American alliance.

The Price on Saddam's Head

Ousting the Iraqi dictator was undeniably good. But the cost to America, Iraq and the world was far too steep.

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May 26, 2012