It is predicted by some observers that the 21st century will be remembered as the "Asian Century." Many of the countries in the region seem to be able to take the economic and trade baton when one of the others experiences problems. The region, in general, continues to grow economically, politically and militarily. The articles presented in this book examine the current political and economic situations in nations across Asia, particularly focusing on economic developments. Topics discussed are: U.S.-Vietnam Relations in 2009, the current issues concerned and implications for U.S. policy; Japan’s nuclear future including the policy debate, prospects and U.S. interests; and Central Asia’s security challenges from crime, corruption, terrorism, and faltering commitments to economic and democratic reforms.This book consists of public documents which have been located, gathered, combined, reformatted, and enhanced with a subject index, selectively edited and bound to provide easy access.