Protecting the Corridor of Freedom to America’s Asian Border
Paskal, Cleo (2024-01-07). "Protecting the Corridor of Freedom to America's Asian Border". Journal of Indo-Pacific Affairs. 7 (4). ISSN 2576-5361.
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Abstract: The article "Protecting the Corridor of Freedom to America’s Asian Border" examines the strategic challenges and responses in the central Pacific region, focusing on historical and contemporary security dynamics. The narrative begins with a historical perspective, detailing Imperial Japan’s military strategies in the Pacific during the early 20th century and its establishment of strategic bases through covert operations . These historical insights frame the discussion around current geopolitical tensions, particularly with China's increasing influence in the area.
The article highlights China’s strategic approach, describing it as a "braided" technique that combines commercial, strategic, and criminal activities to undermine US influence and fortify its position in the Pacific. This is part of China's broader goal to challenge US power and support its partners. The complexity of these maneuvers involves political, economic, and military dimensions, where the lack of repercussions for accepting Chinese funds poses significant challenges to local governance and stability.
Paskal suggests a “block-and-build” strategy where efforts should be made to obstruct Chinese influence while simultaneously strengthening domestic economic and legal institutions in the Pacific territories and associated states. This plan includes measures like targeting corruption and supporting local security institutions. Additionally, the article emphasizes the strategic importance of maintaining democratic institutions in these regions as a counter to authoritarian influence from China.
The central theme revolves around maintaining a balance of power and protecting democratic values in a strategically vital region. The conclusion underscores the critical need for renewed commitment to a "block and build" approach to avoid a costly and difficult conflict in the future, reminiscent of challenges faced in the past.
