Sino-American Tensions. The QUAD and the question of stability. The case of the indo-pacific

Abstract

This thesis analyzes the tensions between the two great powers, the USA and China, with a particular focus on the Indo-Pacific region. The economic and geopolitical weight of the region also play an important role in Sino-American relations. As part of this, in addition to a historical analysis of the relationship between the two countries, the paper focuses on the establishment of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) and analyzes its role in relation to stability in the Indo-Pacific. Both countries separate their different historical, cultural, and theoretical backgrounds; therefore, understanding their respective theoretical perspectives and worldviews occupies an important place in the paper. The respective interests and actions are considered from the point of view of the respective theories of International Relations. This approach is intended to prevent a one-sided theoretical view. The method of literature research is used, whereby a distinction can be made between systematic and backward-looking literature research. The following sources are processed above all: Speeches, press conferences, official government documents, existing scientific papers, articles, reports and studies, as well as newspaper articles and texts by journalists. The study concludes that the establishment of QUAD does have an impact on stability in the Indo Pacific. Among the QUAD members, India, which is readily seen as a counterweight to China, plays a significant role alongside the United States. The U.S. and China accuse each other of being a threat to stability and security in the Indo-Pacific. China sees itself provoked by the QUAD and the increased presence of the USA and restricted in its development and in its position in the Asian region. And the US, in turn, felt that its supremacy was threatened by China's tremendous growth over the past decades as well as its increasing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. In response, and in order to grant stability and security in the region, it strengthened cooperation with the middle powers India, Australia, and Japan under the QUAD. It is apparent that US-China relations in the Indo-Pacific hold dangerous potential for escalation, the consequences of which could be far-reaching for the entire world. This demonstrates the importance and necessity of the two countries taking a step toward each other again, trying to understand each other's perspectives, and reflecting on working together to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.