The Big Parade The PRC’s 60th anniversary parade showcased many of China’s new weapons, but what did it tell us about China’s actual progress and intentions? Inside, two authors offer their perspectives. Also, in this issue: China’s response to the Myanmar border crisis; climate change and China’s water security; the fallout of the Rio Tinto case and China’s secrecy laws; and an new, “unhappy” sort of nationalism. In the final two articles, authors examine the growth of defensive realism in the Indian Ocean and China’s search for international status in space.
Understanding the "Impeccable Incident" In light of the standoff between the US Navy survey ship Impeccable and Chinese vessels earlier this year, three authors examine both countries’ perspectives on military activities in the legally murky waters of Exclusive Economic Zones and look beyond the recent incident to a long-term solution. Also in this issue, two authors discuss the implications of North Korea’s second nuclear test for US and Chinese policy. Other articles include an in-depth account of Mongolia’s geo-strategic importance and its relations with China, and the introduction of a new theory on the relationship between China’s domestic political economy and its foreign policy, including the nature of its soft power.
The PLA Navy Sets Sail
With China’s navy now participating in the UN anti-piracy task force in the Gulf of Aden, three authors reflect on the PLAN’s expanding mission. Also in this issue, three authors also examine the evolution of cross-Strait relations since Ma Ying-jeou’s victory last year. Other articles include: an examination of China’s legal views of space use; an a look at China’s push for a global no-first-use nuclear regime; insight into Beijing’s motivations in Myanmar; and an outlook on China’s solar energy policies.
