China's Trade Opening: Implications for Regional Stability

China's entry into the World Trade Organization could have a decisive impact on that country's long-term development as well as on its relations with Asian neighbors and the United States. A best-case scenario posits a China confident of its role in the region, valuing stability and prosperity. A Chinese middle class could arise. Prospects would be good for mutually beneficial U.S.-China relations and for Chinese social and political reforms. Although a strong China could become a regional aggressor, that prospect is unlikely. It is also unrealistic to expect that China will not modernize its military and use it to enhance its international influence. A strong, stable China is likely to cooperate with Asian neighbors to maintain regional peace and stability.