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The article discusses President Biden's approach to China's growing military threat in the Indo-Pacific region. The focus is on the deepening security relationship between the US and Japan, which sees China's ambitions as a direct threat to its security and independence. However, close cooperation with Japan comes at a cost, as it inflames Chinese public opinion and strengthens the Communist Party's goal of uniting the Chinese people behind Xi Jinping. The article raises questions about whether the Biden administration understands the seriousness of the challenge from China and whether it is willing to provide the necessary resources and support for success. It also highlights the skepticism among some Southeast Asian leaders, who would choose China over the US as their preferred alignment choice in the region. The article concludes that American policy in Asia needs larger investments to match China's military buildup and avoid being called out on its bluff. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the recent summit between President Biden and Xi Jinping, focusing on the issue of fentanyl. China has been a major producer of this synthetic opioid, but previous attempts to crack down on fentanyl-related trade have failed. While China has committed to reducing the production of certain chemicals used to make fentanyl, it is unclear what concessions the US made in return. The article suggests that Beijing may see strategic advantages in allowing the drug trade to continue, despite the risks and negative consequences. The author argues that the focus of the summit should have been on more pressing issues, such as China's threatening posture towards Taiwan and its actions in the South China Sea. [Extracted from the article]