China's reunification and international security in Northeast Asia: After Hong Kong what?

Abstract

This paper examines the implications of Hong Kong's reunification with China on cross‐strait relationship between mainland China and Taiwan. It begins with a discussion of the international security situation in the region and the increasing importance of the People's Republic of China on regional security. The paper then addresses the political and economic consequences of the sovereignty change over Hong Kong on regional security, identifying the added strength to China on the one hand, and the Special Administrative Region's moderating influences on the other. Finally, it evaluates possible changes of the Beijing government's Taiwan policy. In conclusion, the paper argues that China's reunion with Hong Kong may have far reaching implications for regional security by enhancing China's national power as well as injecting an element of uncertainty in cross‐strait relations. However, domestic developments and a more favourable international environment would facilitate the eventual resolution of the Taiwan question peacefully.