Question

Role of Small Power in the Asia Pacific Region.

Answer 1

In October of last year, I had the privilege of spending several days at the Carnegie–Tsinghua Center for Global Policy at Tsinghua University here in Beijing. At the time, I gave a speech on “A New Model of Great Power Relations.” In that speech, I tried to describe the basic characteristics of the “new model,” the reasons for thinking it could be achieved, why the effort might fail, and what steps could be taken to increase the likelihood of success. The speech seemed to be well received. Both the Chinese and American governments seemed committed to developing the concept. I strongly supported the effort and tried to contribute in a small way to it. I was optimistic it could be done. I am less optimistic today. Let me explain why.