ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book presents several empirical arguments showing state use of institutions to achieve the strategic goals in the Asia region. This perspective somewhat contrasts with the liberal institutionalist perspective, where scholars focus on the importance of peaceful means to provide governance to the ungoverned realm of international politics and the cooperative power of international institutions. The book argues that state interests vary and change with changes based on collective interpretations and constructed identities, contrary to much of the conclusions from traditionally realist theories. For realist theories, international interests reflect the importance of state security and the acquisition of power to achieve greater security. The book presents state strategies for engaging relations with other states through institutions. It then addresses the fundamental question about institutional influence over states in the region.
