-(Eurasiareview 29/12) China’s peaceful rise: Till when? What would it take for China to be recognised as having risen? How would one determine if and when China has risen?

-(Vietnamplus 28/12) Vietnam’s Leader asks naval units to improve defence effectiveness: He also stresses the strengthening of military power is in accordance with Vietnam’s development and also the defence-security requirement which is normal in all nations, adding that it is meant to protect the country.

-(The Brunei Times 28/12) Diplomacy key in resolving rows: When resolving regional conflict Brunei will always seek consensus over compromises that may affect ASEAN members’ national interests, Brunei’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

alt-(The Diplomat 26/12) A Holiday Primer on Salami Slicing: How to approach the complex problem of “salami slicing” in the South and East China Seas.