The United States of America being the sole superpower with the strongest economy and military is involved in various countries in Asia. After the Second World War, US presence has been quite significant in different parts of Asia, for example, Middle East countries such as Iran and East Asia countries such as China and Japan (Spykman 121). Many political science analysts have come out with various theories about the presence of the USA in the continent and how the Asians view the presence.
There are Asians who believe that the presence of the USA in Asia has boosted security in the region. For example, there had been several military invasions in the Middle East countries for example when Iraq invaded Kuwait. It took the intervention of the United States to cool down the military temperatures between the countries. On the other hand, East Asian countries such as Australia believe that the American policy has led to the peaceful coexistence in the region as compared to the Middle East countries.
Another perspective from powerful nations in Asia such as India, Japan and Singapore is that the USA presence in Asia is to counter the rising China. Over the years, Chinese economy and military modernization is on the rise. Currently, China’s presence in countries such as African countries that were traditional allies of USA has led to the rise of tension between the two nations. For example, many Americans have been wondering whether China wants to overtake USA in controlling world affairs (Mearsheimer 386).
In conclusion, there has been a mixed reaction towards America in the Asia. Some Asians believe that the presence of USA in Asia is to maintain peaceful coexistence in the Asian countries. Although some Asians especially those in East Asia believe that the presence of USA in Asia is to counter the emergence of China as a powerhouse of military and economy.
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- Liff, Adam P., and G. John Ikenberry. “Racing Toward Tragedy?: China’s Rise, Military Competition In The Asia Pacific, And The Security Dilemma”. International Security 39.2 (2014): 52-91. Web.
- Mearsheimer, J. J. “The Gathering Storm: China’s Challenge To US Power In Asia”. The Chinese Journal of International Politics 3.4 (2010): 381-396. Web. 23 Jan. 2016.
- Spykman, Nicholas J. America’s Strategy in World Politics: The United States and the Balance of Power. New York: Harcourt, Brace, 1942. Print.
- Solingen, Etel. “Pax Asiatica Versus Bella Levantina: The Foundations Of War And Peace In East Asia And The Middle East”. American Political Science Review 101.4 (2007): n. pag. Print.