Examines the interactions of the four major powers (China, Japan, US and Russia) in Northeast Asia in the post-Cold War era, and brings in the perspectives of two middle powers (Australia and Korea). The first section analyses the theoretical and cultural foundations for major power interaction, the second looks at important bilateral relations between these major powers, and the third focuses on the issues with which they have to deal. Topics to be covered are the clash of civilisations and ideologies; the security environment in the region; the chief actors' perceptions of the linkage between economic security and national interests; arms build-up, and regional flash points such as the disputes between the People's Republic of China and Taiwan.