Summary
This book illustrates the extent of the Australia-ASEAN Dialogue Partnership since its inception in 1974. It examines the networks of engagement that have shaped relations across three areas: regionalism, non-traditional security, and economic engagement. An understanding of the nature of the Australia-ASEAN partnership is often overshadowed by occasional shocks that test the relationship, such as people smuggling or terrorism, but beneath the surface of these extremes are deep and steady currents of partnership and cooperation that have flowed over four decades. This volume does not seek to merely commemorate or celebrate 40 years of Australia-ASEAN Dialogue Partnership; it is intended to establish a more sophisticated and balanced understanding around which we can accurately identify the Australia-ASEAN dynamic – historically, culturally and theoretically. The volume not only maps where we have been but also where the Australia-ASEAN partnership might be headed as Southeast Asian economic dynamism and strategic influence expand.