Strategic alliances and alignments in the Indo-Pacific

Abstract

Indo-Pacific is the area in which security and polical cooperation has developed in a very specific way. The alliances in the region and the alignments between various states has shaped the dynamics in an unexpected way. Looking at the connections, overlapping interests and common enemies/rivals, this chapter analyses the relationships between different states. Strategic alliances, alignments and partnerships are a way for states to strengthen their connections, without always formalising them. They are also a way to fulfil certain goals, be it security, deterrence or economic growth.Some of these alliances have endured throughout the Cold War and beyond: US-Japan, US-Korea or US-Australia relations have all been building stones for regional architecture in Asia, largely based around US presence and liberal values. On the other hand, a new group of partnerships has emerged, driven by common interests and common security threats. These new partnerships also play a role in strengthening the role of each individual state in the region and power consolidation.The many lines of partnerships and alliances make Indo-Pacific a very tricky region to navigate, as even allies have sometimes opposed interests, while states without friendly relations find themselves siding together to fight off a common threat.