Turning the 'Asian Century' into reality
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The 21st century is, as some US scholars first pointed out, the "Asian Century." Such a rosy picture has turned out to be an illusion to blandish Asian countries as well to keep the US on alert. The realization of an "Asian Century" rests with nothing but the endeavors of Asian people.
In the eyes of some Asian people, the so-called Asian Century is at hand if current demographic and economic trends last. The 21st century will be led by Asian politics and culture, just like the 20th century is called the American Century and the 19th century the British Century.
That is not accurate in the eyes of some people in the US who want to have another "American Century."
US foreign policy in Asia has proven to be a challenge for China as its real purpose seems to curb the development of China and to split Asia. And it will continue to provoke internal conflicts in Asia. It is also a continuation of the Continental Policy, a trick played by Great Britain in the 19th century.
Asia is in a tug-of-war between the forces of division and integration.
A rapidly rising China has changed the power structure in Asia once for all, which makes some Asian countries uneasy. For example, India and Japan have vowed recently to cement a closer relationship to confront a rising China.
Being the biggest and most populous nation in Asia, China needs to take concrete actions to prove itself to be a responsible and nice neighbor, making other Asian countries believe they can benefit a lot from a prosperous and stable China.
For centuries, Asia has lagged behind the development of some European countries as well the US. The only way for the continent to rise is to concentrate on economic development and shake off the yoke of historical disputes.
The integration of Asia, though more difficult than other places in the world, bears great significance to its people and the whole region.
Asians should take a cautious attitude toward US foreign policy in Asia as well as abandon their illusions of relying on help from the outside world.
As for the US, it should not pin its hopes on dividing Asia by curbing the development of China and plotting behind the scenes.
A split and chaotic Asia does no good to the interests of US either.
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