Relations among Asian nations and the role of frontiers

Abstract The forces of internationalism, nationalism, and communalism are vastly shaping the global stage upon which states must formulate actions necessary to sustain stability and promote economic growth. In this regard, the case of Asia represents a consolidation of both prominent progress but also persistent challenge. Despite the relatively low inter-state tensions encompassing Northeast Asia, there still remain the critical issues of Taiwan and its disputed identity, coupled with North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Here, the United States, while not a part of the region geographically, is an important variable in influencing domestic and regional policies of states. In Southeast Asia, a slightly different pattern prevails, wherein significant domestic challenges are juxtaposed with a favorable trend with respect to international relations. As such, the relative tranquility enjoyed by Southeast Asian states is to an extent offset by detrimental domestic economic policies and political divisions within b...