Asian Ambitions, Rising Tensions

Abstract

With the end of the Cold War, it is increasingly difficult to justify the existence of nuclear weapons. Their reduction, dismantling, and eventual disposal--especially in the former Soviet Union, which may have lost effective control over its strategic and tactical weapons--present problems of unprecedented gravity. These issues will intensify the already complicated problems of nuclear proliferation in the Third World. This article discusses how nuclear ambitions and political instability may pose serious threats to Asian security. Ways in which Soviet weapons, in particular, relate to Asian security are addressed. The government policies of current and future Asian administrations regarding proliferation are assessed. The possibilities for greater inclusion of Asian countries in verification and inspection of nuclear facilities to promote global nonproliferation is discussed.