US Security Engagement with Southeast Asia during the Clinton and Bush
This book examines Southeast Asia's role in US security policy toward the region during the Bill Clinton and George W. Bush administrations. It delves into the US security approach toward regional institutions like ASEAN and the ARF and hones in on specific ASEAN member states, including the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia, as well as the interaction between the US and these countries regarding security. Despite Southeast Asia not being a primary priority in US foreign policy since the end of the Cold War, the region has consistently held significance in Washington's security strategy. Given the goal of establishing a "New Pacific Community," it is critical for the United States to ensure a peaceful and stable Southeast Asia, thereby avoiding the emergence of any potential future rivals to the United States. To effectively implement the Clinton Doctrine's security pillar, the United States has taken measures such as providing military aid and increasing military activities with ASEAN member countries. During President George W. Bush's administration, Southeast Asia gained increased significance for the United States economically and geostrategically. Since September 11, 2001, Southeast Asia has emerged as a crucial player in the US security strategy. The US recognises the region as a 'second front' in its global war on terrorism. Furthermore, the US has been actively enhancing its ties with ASEAN and the ARF while prioritising the development of bilateral relations with crucial ASEAN member countries, including the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Looking ahead, the United States aims to ensure that no potential competitors arise in the region that could challenge its future dominance. When examining the dynamics between the US and Southeast Asia, it becomes evident that the influence of China has consistently been significant. During the 1990s and 2000s, China played an important role in shaping US security policy in the region and influencing the relationship between the US and ASEAN member countries. The rise of China's economic and military power compelled the United States to shift its regional policy towards cooperation and competition to increase its interests in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, the US security relationship with each ASEAN member country has many nuances, depending on each country's role and interests towards the US. To provide readers with a comprehensive perspective and enhance their understanding of US security policy towards the Southeast Asia region, particularly in light of the growing emphasis on the Indo-Pacific region with Southeast Asia at its core, we would like to introduce the book US Security Engagement with Southeast Asia during the Clinton and Bush Administrations, authored by Pham Cao Cuong. This research comprehensively analyses the relationship between the United States and Southeast Asia. It is included in the research work catalogue on US President Bill Clinton. It can be found at the William J. Clinton Library and Museum in the Clinton Presidential Park and Centre, Little Rock, Arkansas. Furthermore, this research work on terrorism is included in the "Bibliography: Terrorism by Region - Southeast Asia" compiled and selected by the Terrorism Research Initiative, Terrorism Research Centre (TRC). The book highlights the importance of studying the history of US security policy towards Southeast Asia and the security relations between the US and ASEAN member countries. Research on the security relations between the US and this region indicates that historical issues significantly impact the US's relations with the area. The foundations that the US has established in Southeast Asia play a crucial role in shaping these relations.