Energy security concerns of China and ASEAN: Trigger for conflict or cooperation in the South China Sea?

Abstract

China and some ASEAN countries are emerging economies. As their population and economies grow at a rapid pace, energy security and related environmental problems remain a big concern. This paper tries to address some interrelated topics: what are China and ASEAN countries' energy status and concerns, and what strategies and approaches have these countries taken to enhance their energy security? Since the South China Sea is vital to the economic prosperity of China and ASEAN countries in terms of energy transportation sea lanes and is believed to contain significant oil and natural gas, how will these countries react, in rivalry or cooperation, for energy exploration there? © 2010 Springer-Verlag.