Knowing that its geopolitical power is directly tied to China’s economic rise and the perception that it will continue for the midterm, Beijing has limited its other geopolitical ambitions for the moment and has pursued the “waiting game”, sensing that its hand will increase in value as the game continues, as long as it is able to get its domestic cards in order. While the US, India, Russia and Japan may maneuver to limit China’s expanded reach, there are several domestic liabilities that could potentially limit Beijing’s ability to gain its presumed position in the region.