Whatever Russia does in Ukraine, the China threat is still US President Joe Biden's priority - he has made that plain. What he is reluctant to broadcast, however, is that America is approaching the China duel with one arm tied behind its back. The United States is happy to boost its military budget, send more ships to the South China Sea and launch nuclear submarine deals with Australia. Perish the thought, however, of taking serious economic initiatives with the world's most dynamic region.
The stark imbalance of Mr Biden's China policy will come to the fore this week when he visits South Korea and Japan. It follows his summit last week with Asean leaders, where the US announced a modest US$150 million (S$208 million) fund for maritime security, clean energy and anti-corruption initiatives. This nugatory wish list amounts to a few days of Chinese investment in its Belt and Road Initiative - or about two hours' worth of Pentagon spending.
Bu hikaye The Straits Times dergisinin May 19, 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye The Straits Times dergisinin May 19, 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
PACIFIC VAMPIRE AGAIN RUTHLESS
Two-out-of-two from Jason Ong’s newest revelation may open the door to 4YO riches
BURRIDGE WILL NOT HASTEN NEXT MOVE
Softer option works for honest 3YO, but veteran trainer may revisit Guineas plans
Over 200,000 workers gained Skills via company training panels
NTUC says such committees also help firms transform by harnessing digital tools
AIA S’pore invests over 20m In new wealth team and centre
Insurer is targeting the growing affluent population in the region
Singtel shares drop after it warns of $3.lb impairment provisions
Telecoms giant expects second-half net loss but says dividend payments won’ be hit
Yen rises against US dollar, Singdollar on suspected govt intervention
Japanese banks said to be selling greenback for yen as currency plunged to 34-year low
Kindergarten in the 'heart' of Joo Chiat has stories to tell
Site was where notable political steps were taken by Goh Chok Tong and Teo Chee Hean
Over 800 speeding violations caught via red-light cameras in three weeks
Traffic Police’s activation of key function has expanded enforcement tools against violators
Many Ukrainian ex-POWs suffer lingering traumas
They have injuries from torture and sexual violence, but do not get adequate treatment
ICC preparing arrest warrants over Gaza war: Israeli officials
Warrants could name officials from both Hamas and Israel, including Netanyahu