BLUF
Regional states are avoiding rigid great-power alignment. They are becoming less defined by great-power rivalry. Influential regional states use partnerships, trade, diplomacy and technology to protect their interests. Australia combines alliances with flexible regional cooperation.Learning Outcomes
Strategic awareness — The article helps learners understand how regional states are responding to great-power competition while protecting their own interests and freedom of action.
Critical thinking — It challenges the assumption that the Indo-Pacific can be understood simply through United States–China rivalry, encouraging learners to consider the influence of other states, institutions and networks.
Decision making — The discussion of flexible partnerships, economic connections and strategic autonomy helps learners assess how states can pursue cooperation without committing themselves exclusively to one major power.
