China
What constrains and restrains China on Taiwan?
Is a Chinese move on Taiwan the world’s next big crisis? What is the probability that the People’s Republic of China will seek to forcibly “reunify” Taiwan in the next few years?
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China’s message problem in PNG
Last month, China signed a significant deal with Papua New Guinea, a downstream processing agreement to manufacture products using locally sourced nickel and cobalt. With this…
A new China loan threatens Vanuatu’s debt outlook
Several Pacific nations have experienced a spike in public debt in recent years due to Covid-related border closures, trade disruptions, and climate-related disasters. Vanuatu,…
From “poop diggers” to allies: Chinese social media reacts to Nauru’s switch
On 15 January, when Nauru switched its diplomatic recognition to Beijing, “Nauru severs its ties with Taiwan” was the top trending topic on Weibo. For two weeks following, we…
Can China use offshore wind to break its reliance on foreign LNG and coal?
A worldwide scramble for energy supplies following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has intensified China’s quest for energy security. The nation is doubling down on all forms of…
Cartographic aggression: Playing it the China way
The new book from India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar might feature the kind of customary proforma chapters expected of a diplomat-turned-politician, but the…
China’s evolving approach to multipolar world order in 2024
Two recent developments underscore a transformation in China’s foreign relations, characterised by assertiveness and, paradoxically, also nuance.
The first approach was…
India’s newfound assertiveness is a feature of the great game in South Asia
Taiwan’s election this month, which saw victory for Lai Ching-te, a figure known for his scepticism towards China and support for independence, has been the focus for recent…
South China Sea: A formula for the Philippines
Shortly before handing over the chairmanship of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to Laos, Indonesia corralled regional states for an unprecedented move. For…
An airliner with Chinese characteristics
During a summer break, The Interpreter will feature selected articles each day from throughout the past year. Normal publishing will resume 15 January, 2024. This article first…