ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book argues that major policy shifts in China's approach to North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan are unlikely in the short to medium term, and that nuclear proliferation is likely to remain an irritant in U. S.–China relations. The proliferation of nuclear weapons in Asia continues to represent a major international security challenge. The book shows that China's approach towards nuclear proliferators has varied substantially over time and across cases. The evolution of Beijing's approach to nuclear proliferation may hold important hints about its trajectory as a great power. The book provides a framework for analyzing what determines a nuclear-armed state's approach to nuclear proliferation. It explores limited evidence of socialization or learning having a major influence on the cases. The book also argues that leader-centered models have limits when explaining China's approach to nuclear proliferation.
