Author(s): Mihnea Alexandru CIOCAN
Publication name: Romanian Intelligence Studies Review
Publisher name: Mihai Viteazul National Intelligence Academy
Publication type: Journal article
Publication date: June 30, 2021
Pagination:
Issue/ Volume: 25/2021
DOI:
Abstract:
In an ever changing geopolitical environment the struggle for dominance
remains a constant. Today we are on the edge of a new bi-polar world, but this time with
the US and China as main actors. In this conjuncture each of these states will try to
dominate and enlarge their sphere of influence, and, if possible to restrict the other part
in expanding theirs. And it will also be a battle for acquiring allies. As such, rather than
direct confrontation, the US policy towards China may aim to resurrect an old strategy
of the Cold War, the containment of the enemy, adapted to the new realities. The idea is
to institute a political blockade to prevent the Chinese enlargement of its reach,
especially in Asia and Africa. In this endeavour, the US needs strong allies in Asia, and the
best candidates are the countries that have a democratic regime, mainly Japan, South
Korea, Australia and India. The theoretical concept stipulates that a “quadrilateral of
democracies” can be created from these states, with the US in the role of the organizer
and promoter of this non-formal alliance. Its purpose would be to stop the advancing
Chinese influence in South East Asia by creating a barrier against Chinese hegemony
and a counter-pole of attraction. Of course, should this task prove effective, other
states may join as well? The main beneficiary of this construct would be the USA,
because the barrier would represent the first line of defence for Washington’s interests
in the Pacific area.
Keywords: China, containment, democracies, doctrine, geopolitics, United States.
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