Don’t Be a Menace to South (China Sea)

The US pivot to Asia was designed to promote stability in a fast-growing region for trade and a constructive relationship with China, explain James Steinberg and Mike O’Hanlon for Foreign Policy. Competing territorial claims in the region could counter those efforts. The US has treaty obligations with Japan and the Philippines, but massive trade with China. The writers urge clarity on US resolve to prevent misjudgments that could trigger military action. “The United States and its allies also have an interest in reassuring China that if Beijing acts responsibly, they will not seek to thwart its future prosperity and security,” Steinberg and O’Hanlon note. “Resolve must be matched by appropriate confidence building, including the willingness to enter into mutual agreements that help make credible each side's professions of good intentions.” The writers urge the United States and China to avoid the atmosphere of mistrust and rivalry that pervades the US-Russia relationship, striving for transparent, positive and reciprocal actions. – YaleGlobal