Changing power structures in the Asia-Pacific region

Unnoticed by the public at large in Europe fundamental changes are taking place in the power constellations between the states of Southeast Asia and in associated relationships and structures. This is likely to lead to conflicts, the course of which cannot yet be predicted. China, which is rapidly gaining strength in economic and, as a result, military terms, is emerging as a central factor. The country's position regarding the status quo is ambivalent. Walter Schilling, security expert and former German military attache in Moscow, analyses the problems, insofar as this is possible at this early point. His assessment of future developments tends to be sceptical and pessimistic.