European Unrest and Lessons for Asia      

The violence and protests that have wracked Europe this summer – the angry popular demonstrations in Greece, the “indignant” marches in Madrid, the murderous  mayhem in Oslo and the wave of riots across London – are firm reminders that order and stability cannot be guaranteed by advanced political systems. Democracy does not guarantee the safety of citizens. (The Jakarta Globe)

(click on the headline to continue)

US-China power play puts heat on ASEAN   
      
AFTER nearly a year of tensions over conflicting territorial claims, East Asian waters have calmed significantly. At last month's Asean meetings, China and South-east Asia agreed on guidelines for implementing the 2002 Declaration of Conduct to govern activities in the South China Sea. (Viet Studies/The Straits Times)

(click on the headline to continue)

Asia-Pacific poses multiple challenges  
  

The US returned to the region last year with its new Asia-Pacific strategy to build a “gooselike security pattern” to tackle China’s rise. The US places itself as the leader of Asia Pacific, followed by the US-Japan and US-ROK alliances. The third tier of the US’ security ring is its relationship with allies such as Australia, the Philippines and Thailand, and the fourth is its ties with Vietnam, Indonesia and India. (The China Daily)

(click on the headline to continue)

Is China a neighbor to Indonesia?   

One might wonder why this question should be asked. More importantly, does it matter? This article is about Indonesia sharing maritime areas with other countries. (The Jakarta Post)

(click on the headline to continue)

Vietnam’s Cabinet: Three Key Ministers Reveal Policy Directions      

A look at three key ministers elected by the Vietnamese National Assembly last week – Phung Quang Thanh at Defense, Vuong Dinh Hue at Finance, and Pham Binh Minh at Foreign Affairs-reveal the pillars of Vietnam’s core policies going forward. (CogitAsia)

(click on the headline to continue)