The semiconductor dynamic between China and Taiwan operates within a three-tier paradigm encompassing cultural, military, and techno-economic dimensions. Taiwan’s export-driven, semiconductor-centric economy is a double-edged sword—serving as both a shield of technological supremacy deterring Chinese aggression and a vulnerability due to its lack of economic diversification for long-term stability.

The Albanese Government’s stabilisation approach has successfully reset Australia-China relations, demonstrating that economic engagement and strategic caution can coexist. By maintaining stability while reinforcing security measures, Australia ensures it can navigate great-power competition without unnecessary provocation, preserving its national interests in the long term.

We’ve become so fixated on the narrative of escalating rivalry—with the US on one side and China and Russia on the other—that we often overlook a subtler yet crucial reality: the potential for strategic alignment between these great powers. Beyond outright competition, an underappreciated space for tacit great-power coordination exists as they navigate and expand their spheres of influence.

This week in Australian foreign affairs: Marles visits new US Defense Secretary Hegseth in Washington D.C.; Wong announces new sanctions on white supremacist terror group, and others; President of the Republic of Palau Surangel S. Whipps Jr visits Australia, and more.

By examining other territorial name disputes worldwide, we know that renaming the Gulf of Mexico could potentially promote division, identity politics, and undemocratic practices. These changes could develop into a new and existential threat for the USA.

Donald Trump seems to be turning tariffs, which can serve as a legitimate tool to achieve the goals of fair trade and the protection of key national security interests, into an illegitimate tool of coercive statecraft. It is likely to undermine the global economic order and US soft-power influence across the world

Donald Trump’s threatened tariffs on Canada signal a dramatic rupture in the decades-long economic and strategic partnership between the two countries, undermining trust and stability in North American trade. As Canada braces for potential economic retaliation, the broader message to US allies is clear—no relationship is immune from Trump’s zero-sum approach to global trade and diplomacy.

Trump’s second term will see renewed pressure on Mexico over immigration, trade, and security, but Mexico's growing economic and strategic importance limits how far the US can act unilaterally. While Trump seeks to impose tariffs and toughen immigration policies, Mexico’s government under Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo is prepared to push back, leveraging trade dependencies and regional cooperation to negotiate better terms.

Japan has experienced three major earthquakes in the past 100 years. In an era of frequent natural disasters, Japan’s unique disaster prevention park system has received renewed attention as a means of transmitting disaster memories to the next generation. 

Ukraine’s e-governance platform, “Diia,” has proven essential during the war, showcasing the power of digital innovation and resilience. Australia can learn from Ukraine to strengthen its digital infrastructure, improve public trust, and ensure strength in future crises.