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Bush Bashers are Wrong About Asia

The subject of Asia has become a common source of criticism in US politics. Many Republicans want to see an end to cooperation with Peking because of China’s alleged attempt to displace the US in Asia, its defense budget, missile buildup, growing submarine fleet, and anti-satellite capabilities. The trade protectionists, meanwhile, are focusing on China’s $233 billion trade surplus with the United States, its $1 trillion-plus reserves of foreign exchange, its undervalued currency, the inadequate quality of its exports, and the perceived threat China poses to US workers.

Nevertheless, Cha concedes that the US’ position in Asia has never been better and gives considerable evidence to back this up. He stresses that the region has remained in peace and that the US’ relationship with China is pragmatic, result orientated, and cooperative. China has remained peaceful, even on controversial issues like the US’ relationship with Japan and Taiwan’s push for independence. Furthermore, the Japanese government has become a close partner of the US, helping Japan to become a more global player. It has been involved in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Iranian nuclear negotiations.

Even the situation in Korea has improved. South Korea has become an important trading partner and member of global military coalitions. Although the nuclear standoffs in North Korea remain unresolved, the admission of inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and shutdown of the Yongbyon nuclear facility in July 2007 are clear signs that the US government has made considerable progress.

All of this is evidence of the US’ plans for new regional architecture in Asia involving deep engagement with Southeast Asian states, a security system in Northeast Asia, and a network of interconnecting bilateral, trilateral, and multilateral institutions to deal with security problems. Contrary to popular belief, these plans would not clash with Chinese aspirations in Southeast Asia. China would assume a major role as problem solver in the area.

Cha, however, also contends that successes achieved by the Bush administration face disruption from the forthcoming presidential elections in the US. The new US president, whether Republican or Democrat, must maintain the balance between a pragmatic working relationship with China and a strong cooperation with Japan. It should strive to support free trade with and within the region and to extend the six-party talks on a North Asian peace and security system.

The summary above was prepared by Natasha Doff of the Atlantic Community editorial team from “Winning Asia” published in Foreign Affairs by the Council of Foreign Relations in November/December, 2007

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