ABSTRACT
Geography and wealth are the blessing and curse of South-East Asia. Left to themselves, given a reasonable measure of stability and good government, the easy-going and friendly peoples of the area could enjoy comfortable living standards without undue effort. Attempts to resolve their formidable internal problems will absorb Indian energies for many years to come and preclude her from a responsible international role commensurate with her size and importance. Pakistan-previously committed to the anti-Communist side through membership of the South-East Asia Treaty Organisation and of the Central Treaty Organisation-has been gradually veering towards neutrality and to equal friendship with all. Cambodia for long set an example that other South-East Asian nations may be inclined to imitate: neutrality without isolation, alliances without engagement, leaving options open, being wary of neighbours but playing distant big powers off against.
