Fueling the Dragon: Energy Security in China: Is There a Role for US policy

摘要

Many authors talk about the rising power of China and the 'China threat.' One area where conflict has frequently been predicted is in China's pursuit of energy security. This thesis explores China's energy situation, options available to meet rising demand, environmental impact of these options, and possible ways to mitigate these effects. The thesis then determines to what extent China will be unable to meet its needs from domestic sources and have to look overseas. Then, a review of China's most likely overseas suppliers will explain where China's actions could be threatening to U.S. interests, and where fears are overblown. The areas where concern is most warranted is in China's increasing dependence on imports for its oil needs, and its continued reliance on coal usage. The desire to ensure secure oil supplies has led China to deal with Iran and Iraq, despite U.S. desires to isolate these nations. China is also increasing its influence throughout the Middle East, Central Asia, South America, and retains claims in the South China Sea. While actions in these regions are not necessarily threatening, U.S. policy can play a role in keeping it that way.