“Triumphalism” and Decision Making in China’s Asia Policy

AbstractThe recent years have seen the fading influence of China and the increasing role of the United States in East Asia. This situation is partly attributed to problems in China’s foreign policy orientation, diplomatic behaviors, and policy-making mechanism. In its relations with the East Asian neighbors, China has exhibited a kind of “triumphalism.” The complex causes of this triumphalism include the conception of “G2 the Chinese version,” China’s rising popular nationalism, the less-regulated mass media and the coordination failure within the bureaucracy. Nevertheless, the Chinese top leaders have the final say and their role is always decisive.