Cambodia's China Strategy: Security Dilemmas of Embracing the Dragon

This book explores Cambodia's foreign policy tensions between China and ASEAN, tracing its history of survival and struggle for independence. It assesses the geopolitical predicaments and risks of Cambodia's tight alignment with China, arguing that the ruling regime depends on strong relations for legitimacy and survival.

Format: Hardback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the complex dynamics of Cambodia's foreign policy, navigating the intricate balance between its close alignment with China and its commitment to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its strategic diversification towards other major powers. It traces the historical roots of Cambodia's quest for survival, facing challenges from its larger and historically antagonistic neighbors, Thailand and Vietnam. The book explores Cambodia's struggle for security and independence, as well as its efforts to establish diplomatic relations with external powers, particularly the United States and China.

Cambodia's geopolitical position, sandwiched between powerful neighbors and limited strategic options, poses significant challenges for the Kingdom. The book assesses recent developments in Cambodia's relations with its neighbors, examining the implications of the country's increasingly tight alignment with China. It explores the extent to which the ruling regime in Cambodia relies on strong relations with China for its legitimacy and survival, raising concerns about the risks and dangers associated with this alignment.

The book also examines the potential for diversification in Cambodia's foreign policy, exploring opportunities for engagement with regional and global powers to promote its interests and ensure its long-term stability. It highlights the importance of building strong diplomatic relations and fostering mutual understanding to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and promote regional peace and prosperity.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into Cambodia's foreign policy challenges and opportunities, shedding light on the complex dynamics between China, ASEAN, and other major powers. It offers a comprehensive analysis of Cambodia's historical, geopolitical, and economic factors that shape its foreign policy decisions and highlights the risks and dangers associated with its increasingly tight alignment with China. By examining the potential for diversification and building strong diplomatic relations, the book provides valuable recommendations for promoting Cambodia's long-term stability and prosperity in the global arena.

Weight: 524g
Dimension: 160 x 241 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367279493