The dilemma of a declining superpower

The United States is finding itself mired in that predicament which has accelerated since the dawn of the 21st Century. The past decade shows the harsh reality that Uncle Sam is no longer the Goliath of the world, as it has become an economic, political and diplomatic midget.

The only strength it still possesses is naked military force. But here precisely lies the dilemma: Military power can hardly solve the problems and challenges of our century. In fact, its usefulness as an instrument of foreign policy has gone down the drain.

America must therefore seek a real or imaginary “enemy” to remain a creditable superpower. Right now, it is clear that the U.S. has picked China — the rising power — as both a potential and imaginary power to sustain its military powerhouse.

Last month's joint military drills between the U.S. and South Korea, in which the state-of-the-art weapons systems were deployed, was intended to create apprehension in Beijing. The largest drills since the end of the Vietnam War served a reminder to China that U.S. preponderant military presence in the Asia-Pacific region is here to stay.

Washington also has challenged China's increasing influence in Southeast Asia by poking its nose into the South China Seas debacle. The war of words between the U.S. and the People's Republic has increasingly turned into preparation for war between two giants.

Taiwan is squished in the middle. It cherishes its new-found peace with China following the signing of economic cooperation framework agreement. At the same time, it is not prepared to cut the Gordian Knot tied up with Washington.

War exists first in the minds of men. President Ma Ying-jeou is finding himself caught between the devil and the deep blue sea. The most realistic policy for Taiwan to survive is to seek and cultivate friendship with all, and be an enemy of none.

Subscribe to The China Post and save 25%. Click here

SharePrintEmail

Write a Comment

Terms

Enter your comments - 3000 characters max

Type in image code

Submit

 Receive China Post promos
 Respond to this email