Number: RL34588
Title: China's Foreign Policy: What Does It Mean for U.S. Global Interests?
Authors: Kerry Dumbaugh, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Variously referred to as China's "charm offensive" or its "soft power" approach, Beijing's growing international economic engagement, many fear, is going hand-inhand with expanding political influence. Although some believe that PRC officials appear more comfortable working with undemocratic or authoritarian governments, PRC outreach also has extended to key U.S. allies or to regions where U.S. dominance to date has been unparalleled and unquestioned, leading some to conclude that Beijing ultimately intends a direct challenge to U.S. global power. As a result, Congress and other U.S. policymakers are focusing attention on the critical implications China's increasing international engagement could have for U.S. economic and strategic interests.
Pages: 26
Date: July 18, 2008