As Joe Biden prepares to enter the White House in January, what questions or concerns is he likely to hear from his counterparts in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America, as well as officials from international institutions? Foreign Policy experts weigh in.
China’s foreign policy establishment is wary but cautiously optimistic about better relations with a Biden administration, explains Cheng Li. But many of the conditions that shaped Trump’s China policy still exist, and resetting relations between the world’s greatest powers will not be easy.
In the wake of the dismissal of Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, Michael O’Hanlon joins The Current podcast to discuss Esper’s track record as secretary and the stability of civilian military leadership at the end of President Trump’s term.
After Trump. Categorically rejecting all of the Trump administration’s foreign policy would be a missed opportunity for President-elect Biden, who should instead see some of his predecessor's steps as worthwhile building blocks for future policy, urges Michael O'Hanlon in the Wall Street Journal.
Will America lead? In an episode of the Dollar & Sense podcast, Marvin Kalb and David Dollar consider how the current moment of political polarization in the United States compares to other divisive eras in American history and discuss whether a Biden administration can restore a U.S.-led international order.
Democracy abroad. The next administration should make strengthening democracy overseas a pillar of its foreign policy, write Patrick Quirk and Daniel Twining, because it embodies core ideals and is imperative to U.S. security and economic well-being.
Repair at home.Vanda Felbab-Brown contends that after President Trump, the United States has a long and difficult road ahead to heal its institutions, political divisions, and people.
Asia
Restoring America’s role. Asia’s continued stability and economic growth demands an engaged and strong United States, argues Ryan Hass; the key question is how the U.S. can best exercise its power and diplomacy.
Deterrence in Asia.Michael Sinclair and Rodrick McHaty make the case for cooperation between the Marines and the Coast Guard in the Western Pacific, arguing that together they can better deter China.
International affairs
Remembering Saeb Erekat. Hailing the Palestinian official and negotiator as “a brilliant and driven defender of Palestinian rights,” Shibley Telhami remembers the life and legacy of Saeb Erekat, who worked relentlessly in pursuit of peaceful co-existence with Israel in the context of “two states for two people.”
U.S.-India ties.Tanvi Madan contends that a Biden administration can foster partnership in the areas of climate change, global health security, and democracy, presenting more opportunities for cooperation between the United States and India.
U.S.-Russia relations. “If Putin and the Kremlin exercise some moderation, they can expect from the next American president a readiness for serious dialogue — including on differences — of a kind that has been noticeably absent in recent years,” writes Steven Pifer.
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