China's rapid economic, social, and technological progress is transforming the global community. The size of China's population, the strength of its economy, the reach of its culture, and the character of its politics elicit the concern of individuals, institutions, and organizations charged with observing, creating, implementing, and evaluating policies that affect global security.

Chinese decisions on military modernization, the conduct of foreign policy, and participation in international arms control affect the security of neighboring countries and impact the United States. Because influence naturally travels in both directions, American debates and decisions influence Chinese attitudes and behavior.

Constantly changing developments present U.S. and Chinese policy makers with challenges and opportunities that require sustained examination, careful analysis and effective communication about security concerns. Nongovernmental organizations such as the Union of Concerned Scientists play an essential role in shaping security policy by producing reliable information through independent analysis and cooperative research exchanged in open and international forums.

Because of China’s strategic importance, UCS maintains an active program of engagement with the Chinese security community, particularly with an emerging group of Chinese technical experts on arms control and disarmament. We conduct collaborative research on critical issues such as transparency and space security, operate fellowships and training programs for young Chinese scientists, and produce timely translations and analysis of Chinese writings on military and security issues.

Thoughtful and productive engagement across one of the human community's widest cultural divides helps Americans and Chinese alike. Chinese participants come to understand contemporary technological developments and their implications for the international arms control regime. Concerned Americans come to understand new directions in Chinese policy and their potential impact on our efforts to establish and maintain global security.