China (Foreign)

Issue 1: China’s Relations with Japan

Background: China and Japan have a complex and sensitive relationship, with historical and territorial disputes in the East China Sea over the Diaoyu Islands (known as Senkaku in Japan) . China has warned Japan that their relations are at a critical stage, where they must either move forward or fall behind .

Pressing Challenge: The relations between the two countries have been tense in recent months, with China’s dissatisfaction with Japan’s decision to allow the discharge of treated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the sea . Japan’s latest White Paper has also expressed “serious concern” over China’s tough external stance and growing military activity .

Link:  China Warns Japan of Critical Relations: Move Forward or Fall Behind (EAD)

Extemp Questions:

1. What are the historical and territorial disputes between China and Japan in the East China Sea?
2. How has China’s dissatisfaction with Japan’s decision to discharge treated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant affected their relations?
3. What are the implications of Japan’s latest White Paper on China’s military activity and external stance?

Issue 2: China’s Military Expansion in the South China Sea

Background: China has been expanding its military presence in the South China Sea, with the construction of artificial islands and the deployment of military assets . This has raised concerns among neighboring countries and the international community about China’s intentions and the potential for conflict.

Pressing Challenge: The South China Sea is a critical waterway for international trade and commerce, and China’s military expansion has raised concerns about freedom of navigation and the potential for conflict .

Link:  Toward A Peaceful Future: Cooperation And Solutions For East Asia’s International Issues (foIIow.it)

Extemp Questions:

1. What are the implications of China’s military expansion in the South China Sea for regional stability and security?
2. How has China’s construction of artificial islands in the South China Sea affected the regional balance of power?
3. What are the potential consequences of China’s military expansion in the South China Sea for international trade and commerce?

Issue 3: China’s Relations with North Korea

Background: China and North Korea have a long-standing relationship, with China being North Korea’s largest trading partner and closest ally . However, China has also been critical of North Korea’s nuclear program and has supported international sanctions against the country.

Pressing Challenge: The situation on the Korean Peninsula remains volatile, with North Korea’s nuclear program and ballistic missile tests posing a significant threat to regional stability and security .

Link:  Toward A Peaceful Future: Cooperation And Solutions For East Asia’s International Issues (foIIow.it)

Extemp Questions:

1. What are the implications of China’s relationship with North Korea for regional stability and security?
2. How has China’s support for international sanctions against North Korea affected their relations?
3. What are the potential consequences of North Korea’s nuclear program and ballistic missile tests for regional stability and security?

Issue 4: China’s Relations with Taiwan

Background: China and Taiwan have a complex and sensitive relationship, with China considering Taiwan to be a part of its territory . Taiwan has been seeking greater international recognition and participation in international organizations, which has been met with opposition from China.

Pressing Challenge: The situation in the Taiwan Strait remains volatile, with China’s military expansion and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan posing a significant threat to regional stability and security .

Link:  Toward A Peaceful Future: Cooperation And Solutions For East Asia’s International Issues (foIIow.it)

Extemp Questions:

1. What are the implications of China’s relationship with Taiwan for regional stability and security?
2. How has China’s military expansion and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan affected their relations?
3. What are the potential consequences of Taiwan’s seeking greater international recognition and participation in international organizations for regional stability and security?

Issue 5: China’s Relations with Southeast Asia

Background: China has been seeking to expand its influence in Southeast Asia, with the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) being a key component of its strategy . However, China’s relations with Southeast Asia have been complicated by territorial disputes in the South China Sea and concerns about China’s military expansion.

Pressing Challenge: The situation in Southeast Asia remains complex, with China’s relations with individual countries being affected by a range of factors, including territorial disputes, economic interests, and security concerns .

Link:  China’s Shaanxi launches international legal affairs office for belt and road (South China Morning Post)

Extemp Questions:

1. What are the implications of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for Southeast Asia?
2. How have territorial disputes in the South China Sea affected China’s relations with Southeast Asia?
3. What are the potential consequences of China’s military expansion in Southeast Asia for regional stability and security?