U.S.-CHINA RELATIONSSecurity Issues & China’s Role in the World

China’s Military Budget

Will economic growth in China translate to increased military strength?

Military budget (estimate)• 2002: $20 billion• 2011: $120 billion

China could surpass the U.S. in military spending by 2035 (Washington Post)

Military Modernization

Commitment to long-term military modernization

China buys Russian military warplanes, submarines & longer-range missile tech.

It’s nuclear arsenal in the 4th largest; increasing secrecy (“underground Great Wall”)

International Arms Sales

U.S. concern about China’s role in the int’l arms market.

China is a major seller of weapons, military vehicles & communications equipment to dev. countries.

Helped Pakistan produce long-range missiles with a range of 185 miles

Cyber Attacks & Security

Increase in cyber attacks, many originating in China

2011-phishing effort against Gmail accounts of senior U.S. gov’t officials & military personnel

U.S. intelligence officials have publicly accused China of stealing high-tech data

China’s Role in East Asia

China’s government is more assertive in int’l relations, especially SE & East Asia

Build-up of its navy; greater presence in the South China Sea

Claims to resource-rich territory in the sea disputed by other countries in the region (Vietnam, Malaysia)

North Korea’s Nuclear Program

North Korea has developed nuclear weapons in violation of the1994 nuclear NPT

Since 2003, the “Six-Party Talks” have tried to end the program

China is important in getting North Korea to negotiations; acts as a mediator between N.K. & the U.S.

The Challenge of Taiwan

In 1949, after Communist victory, Nationalists formed a government on Taiwan.

A democracy, Taiwan is also an economic power & one of the world’s top exporters.

Its int’l political status is a long-term issue in East Asia affairs/U.S.-China relations.

Two Governments; One State

Though Taiwan and China have distinct governments, they are officially one state.

Taiwan lost its UN seat to China in 1971; forced from int’l orgs (IMF, World Bank)

China firmly holds to a “one China” position; has a goal of reunification

The United States & Taiwan

After the Korean War, the U.S. was an ally of Taiwan; billions in military aid.

In 1978, the U.S. broke ties with Taiwan & recognized China (PRC).

Taiwan Relations Act (1979) guaranteed continued trade & cultural relations; assured security for the island