ABSTRACT
The analysis in the preceding chapters revealed the special qualities within each state’s bilateral relationship with Washington. The individual interests and historical experiences of these states set them apart from one another, but their fear of China’s rising power and concern for its more assertive foreign policy stance has drawn them closer together. Comparing the security relationships factors that each state exhibited relative to the United States can allow us to identify broader implications for the regional security structure. The conclusions of each chapter, which were uncovered by exploring key points in each of three periods — Cold War, post-Cold War and post-September 11th — can be examined collectively to determine which factors most considerably affect the prospect for future security relationships in the South China Sea.
