The Emergence of New Cold War in Asia-Pacific: Implications for Pakistan

The power equation in the Asia-Pacific region is transforming due to the intense competition between the US and China. The US is trying to alter the traditional political order, while China intends to enhance its economic stature. Various developments are underway, including the formation of alliances, defense cooperation among allies, and muscle-flexing between rival states in the Asia Pacific and Indian Ocean. These developments make the Asia-Pacific region the epicentre of this new Cold War competition between Washington and Beijing. However, in view of the US, power play in the region is impossible without forming alliances. This research study delves into the recognition of the competition between the US and China, tracing US attempts to form alliances in the region and putting China into a security dilemma. The study will also shed light on the reasons why the presence of China is perceived as a threat to US hegemony in the region. The consequence of the competition between the US and China in the Asia-Pacific will enormously exacerbate the strategic stability in South Asia due to the US's action in developing bloc politics. This research study also highlights challenges for Pakistan as India has become a key ally of the US in the quest for power drive in the region.