Economics and security in Northeast Asia: The iron silk road, its context and implications*

The views expressed here do not represent those of the U.S. Army, U.S. Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.

Abstract

In recent years, there have been some developments in East Asia. North Korea has officially stated that it is developing nuclear weapons. Because of this, its neighbours have been uneasy and have resulted in significant changes. Previously, there was a primary drive to develop East Asia's economic potential. South Korea wanted to specialize in certain key strategic industries while becoming the region's business hub. Russia wanted to exploit its vast eastern region for its natural resources and build a railway connecting Europe to East Asia. Japan wants to escape its economic slump. China wants to bring about a new era of prosperity for its people. However, this all changed because of North Korea. Now, these nations are delicately balancing their economic priorities with political and military security.

Notes

The views expressed here do not represent those of the U.S. Army, U.S. Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.