In 2023, the United States signed basing agreements with the Philippines and Papua New Guinea. This continues a trend of increasing its already expansive military presence in the Asia-Pacific to balance China’s growing power and influence. Heightened Chinese military capabilities, rising tension, and limited U.S.-China diplomatic engagement fuel growing concerns that a war could break out between the world’s two largest powers. Is sending more U.S. forces to the region and opening more bases the best policy to defend American interests? What military and political value do overseas bases provide to the U.S.—and what are the costs and risks of maintaining our current posture? How might China respond to an expanded U.S. presence? Are U.S. allies encouraged to do more to deter China because of our presence, or does it discourage them from balancing behaviors? Would a strategy centered on economic and diplomatic engagement better serve U.S. interests? Featured panelists Peter Harris, Non-Resident Fellow, Defense Priorities; Associate Professor, Colorado State University David C. Kang, Professor, University of Southern California; Director of the Korean Studies Institute and the Center for International Studies, University of Southern California Susan Shirk, Research Professor, University of California, San Diego; Founding Chair, 21st Century China Center; Director Emeritus, UC Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation Moderator Lyle Goldstein, Director of Asia Engagement, Defense Priorities