Maritime Security in East Asia: Major Issues and Regional Responses

Abstract

The current maritime security environment of East Asia is a complicated mix of old and new challenges. The major issues include island and boundary disputes, naval arms build-up, protection of sea-lanes, navigational regimes and activities in the exclusive economic zone, competition over resources, and maintenance of law and order at sea. These issues, unless dealt with adequately, could pose serious threats to regional stability. The most urgent task for the region in responding to these challenges is the building of a stable and secure maritime regime as well as the implementation of maritime confidence-building measures.