‘Chinese Dream,' Global Ambition - Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative

Much focus on Chinas ambitious Belt and Road Initiative has understandably been on the massive scale of its infrastructure projects and the implications for the economies of the countries involved. But more is at stake than just building railways, ports and pipelines.As proponents of Chinas expanding global ambitions, Christopher H. Lim and Vincent Mack Zhi Wei argue that the BRI is a central component of Beijings agenda to cement its leadership in the world.

Can China's President Live Up To His Own Top Billing?

Chinese President Xi Jinping is convinced that for his country to achieve the Chinese Dream and assume its rightful place on the global stage, the central role of the Chinese Communist Party and the importance of leadership from the top must be strengthened.That flies in the face of those who believe Chinas future lies in greater openness and reform. David Shambaugh examines how Xis approach to leadership is moving China both forward and backward.

India's Strong Man: Narendra Modi Remains An Authoritarian At Heart

India has long prided itself on being the worlds largest democracy, and one built on a population of remarkable religious, ethnic, cultural and racial diversity. More recently, the country has touted its growing economy as a sign that India is poised to take its place as a major emerging power. But with the election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, the specter of Hindu nationalism has emerged as a potent force that could threaten the countrys democracy. Pratap Bhanu Mehta looks at the evolving effects of Modis leadership.

Abe's More Assertive Japan: Will He Defy Expectations Again?

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan has proven, despite the setback of his first, undistinguished stint as premier, to be a remarkably resilient politician. In power since 2012, his economic policies have been only moderately successful and his aggressive security policies have raised the hackles of large segments of the Japanese public.Nonetheless, he may soon become Japans longest-serving post-war prime minister. The challenges he faces, however, continue to mount, writes Ellis Krauss, among them Donald Trumps erratic administration and Abes desire to amend Japans postwar peace constitution to fit the reality of the countrys more assertive security posture.