Publication

This paper talks about US policy toward the East and South China Seas, with a particular focus on its approach toward China. To do this, it examines the state of maritime competition in the region, China's policy toward the China Sea area, and the response of the US and its allies on both these matters. The authors argue that China’s military modernization will continue to be a challenge for the US, including in terms of its willingness and ability to reassure allies and partners and ensure peace and stability in the region. They say that US defense budget cuts and broader questions about the future of America’s role in the world make this especially true.