Security assurance policy of the United States and impact on its Southeast Asia partners

This chapter explores the nature of the U.S.'s security assurance in Southeast Asia and its contribution to regional stability and security, particularly considering the strategic competition between the U.S. and China. Southeast Asian countries have become important allies for the U.S. in the South China Sea, and this article investigates the factors that influence U.S. security assurance policies in the region, including domestic politics and regional security dynamics. The U.S. is actively engaged in various security initiatives in Southeast Asia, such as the Southeast Asia Maritime Security Initiative, ASEAN Regional Forum, International Military Education and Training program, and the Foreign Military Financing program. Additionally, the article discusses the multifaceted objectives of U.S. Indo-Pacific policies that aim to promote stability and prosperity in the region through increased economic and security cooperation while balancing regional security interests with economic concerns. This chapter provides case studies of Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia, where the U.S. has a viral favorability rating and has established strong relationships in the political, economic, and security arenas. The U.S. and its Indo-Pacific partners are developing a durable framework to address growing Chinese power and U.S.-China tensions to ensure regional stability and prosperity.