Backgrounder: China Economy Year in Review
China’s state authorities are projecting confidence as they hope for a rebound, but the structural contradictions that thwarted economic growth in 2023 still loom large over the year to come.
US Missile Defense
The U.S.' planned European missile defense shield, a principal feature of the Bush administration’s foreign policy, appears destined for the dustbin after Barack Obama’s recent presidential election victory.
US in Hot Pursuit of Pakistan Taliban across the Afghan Border
A pre-dawn raid conducted in Pakistan by US commandos from Afghanistan has been condemned by Pakistani officials as a breach of sovereignty, reflecting concerns that the US’ unilateral operations in the “war on terror” could foment social unrest in Pakistan, undermine the civilian government, and imperil US-Pakistani relations.
Russian Financial System Falling Behind
Bank and financial systems have yet to reach their potential in Russia.
Europe Must Reaffirm the Lisbon Strategy
Europe’s redemption lies in the re-affirmation of the Lisbon Strategy of 2000, a ten-year development plan that focused on innovation, education, and social and environmental renewal.
Taliban declares ceasefire
Pakistani Taliban declared a 10-day ceasefire with the Pakistani government in response to the Pakistani government's agreeing to impose Sharia Law in the Swat District. However, the imposition of Sharia Law will enable the Taliban and allied anti-American militant groups to consolidate local control, a necessary precursor to furthering their anti-American operations.
New priorities in Sino-American relations
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s recent trip to Asia suggests that Sino-American relations during the Obama administration will be characterized by a move to ignore the thornier issues of Taiwan and human rights in an effort to achieve closer co-operation in the economic, military, and environmental fields.
Honduras talks collapse
With both sides unwilling to budge in official talks, a protracted period of protests, counter-protests, and domestic instability looms over Honduras.
Obama cancels change agenda
At the G20 Summit, U.S. President Barack Obama rejected proposals for change to the global financial system, ensuring a continuation of American global economic hegemony.
Interview: Dr. Parag Khanna on US Foreign Policy, Mideast Geopolitics, and Globalization
Geopoliticalmonitor.com sits down with Dr. Parag Khanna to discuss US foreign policy and the future of globalization.