The Arctic and New Security Challenges in Asia

Abstract

The most under-reported aspect of the Arctic's growing importance is its impact upon Asia's international relations. There is an enormous need for energy due to the rise of China and other Asian countries as the most dynamic region of the global economy. The introduction of the Arctic into the Asian equation could enhance Russia's role. This article explores a process of interaction between the Arctic and Northeast Asian issues, like Sino-Russian relations, and between the Arctic and Southeast Asian issues, like the struggles over the South China Sea. In Southeast and Northeast Asia, local governments from South Korea to India are all building up their fleets. We can also see a generalized trend in tying fleet construction to missions connected with the defense of energy sources or of energy transit through international and national waters.