Sino-American Nuclear Relations: The Need for Calm as China Becomes A 21st Century Nuclear State

Abstract

The re-emergence of China as an economic powerhouse has given it new levels of boldness in claiming what it sees as its rightful territory in the South and East China Seas. China’s claims have been seen by many in the United States and Asia as a policy of expansionism, comparable to Imperialist Japan in 1932-45. These disputes have coincided with the modernisation of China’s nuclear forces. However, Sino-American relations can be managed despite ongoing tensions in Asia. This article will make a number of recommendations to build Sino-American relations whilst China undergoes its nuclear modernisation and mutually fuelled Sino-American security fears.