Introducing the book "The Political Landscape of East Asia 1991-2016"

1991 became a historic year marking the dissolution of the Soviet state and the end of the Cold War. Following this, the world underwent significant changes, with a realignment of power among major powers aiming for a new world order. East Asia, in particular, witnessed many important events impacting international relations and individual countries in the region. Author Tran Bach Hieu focuses his research on this shifting position among countries and international organizations in the region.

Based on theoretical perspectives on international relations, the author divides the historical process in East Asia from 1991 to 2016 into three stages: 1) From 1991-2001, a "power vacuum" emerged in East Asia due to the collapse of the Soviet Union and the decline of US influence, creating opportunities for the rise of Japan and China, but the "political landscape and appearance of the region remained unclear"; 2) From 2001 to 2009, the distribution of power gradually took place among major powers such as the US, Russia, Japan, and China, along with multilateral organizations such as ASEAN, ARF, and APEC, all of which "became key pieces on the East Asian political chessboard"; 3) From 2009 to 2016, policy adjustments by major powers created a "three-legged stool" dynamic characterized by tension, limited cooperation, and a lack of trust among three key actors: China, Japan/ASEAN, and ARF, APEC/the US, and Russia. The author observes that "the political landscape in East Asia has emerged with a mix of tensions, a lack of genuine cooperation, and potential for conflict between these actors" (and even within individual actors, such as between China and Japan, and between the US and Russia).

Vietnam, an East Asian country and a member of ASEAN, has many historical ties and is a strategic/comprehensive partner with major powers. Therefore, Vietnam faces numerous opportunities and challenges amidst the changing political landscape in the region. The author dedicates several pages to analyzing Vietnam's advantages and disadvantages, emphasizing three key aspects of its strategy: a correct understanding of the regional and global political landscape; effectively exploiting geopolitical advantages to create opportunities for national development and enhance its standing; and pursuing a policy of "strategic balance" among major powers.

The book concludes with 224 pages structured into four chapters, providing readers with a wealth of fundamental and useful knowledge. The East Asian landscape is constantly evolving, with countless events unfolding in which each nation plays a dominant role, yet is simultaneously influenced by the overall situation. The author stops at the year 2016, naturally leaving many issues for reflection. Dr. Tran Bach Hieu's scholarly work is a valuable and insightful contribution for undergraduate students, graduate students, researchers, and anyone interested in politics and international relations in East Asia.

May 2017

Professor Vu Duong Ninh