Despite the growing internal social unrest and disparity of economic development the Peopleâs Republic of China is the third largest world economy and the second largest defense spender. Showing no clear signs of slowing down Chinaâs rise is seen as both an opportunity and a challenge by the major world powers. This book examines every aspect of Beijing's strategies ranging from political economic and social challenges to the Taiwan and Hong Kong issues to the implications of these strategies in terms of China's place within the Asia Pacific and indeed within the world system. Written by a stellar line-up of international contributors the book will appeal to students and scholars of Chinese politics foreign policy political economy and social policy and China-watchers alike. . Language: English