Security Debates in East Asia since the End of the Cold War.

During the Cold War era, security issues in East Asia were relatively straightforward as a result of the East-West confrontation. However, with the end of bipolarity, security issues in the East Asian region have become more diverse and complex.1 Political order in East Asia is not just a matter of China, Japan, and Korea. Their bilateral relations with the United States, and Washington's East Asian policies exercise a strong, if not predominant influence in the region (Howe 2005: 761-792). Russia continues to be an important player in the region. Thus, the geopolitical and strategic situation of East Asia is unique and, for instance, quite different from Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]