Diplomatic relations between Japan and China must improve for the Asia-Pacific region to thrive economically and politically, explains CFR’s Sheila Smith.

Rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United States reflect the differences in the longtime allies’ interests on a range of Middle East priorities, says CFR’s Fred Kaplan.

Peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians have relaunched, ensuring major new challenges for both parties and the United States, says CFR’s Robert Danin.

With a slowing economy, China’s continued growth will largely depend on Beijing’s policy decisions, says CFR’s Robert Kahn.