ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts covered in the preceding chapters of this book. This book demonstrates certain key policy decisions in the 1990s, energy policy has increasingly shifted to being a concern of 'high politics' where political and strategic concerns have assumed an equal ranking with economic and commercial considerations. The policymaking process is also notable for its complexity and the multiplicity of actors who bring in a variety of domestic political, military-strategic, commercial and economic interests. However, the Paper argues that the prospects for such scenarios would be unlikely to be driven by strictly energy considerations and would be a consequence of a broader break down in Chinese relations with the US and other Western states. As an independent variable, China's needs for foreign energy supplies are more likely to foster interdependence and regional and international integration which should strengthen cooperation and responsible Chinese behaviour.
