The South Asian Nuclear Security Network: A Security Dilemma?

　　ABSTRACT: The security dilemma is central to realist theories of international relations.South Asia’s most hostile pair of states-India and Pakistan-both possess nuclear weapons, while staying outside the authority of international non-proliferation treaties.This has exacerbated the security dilemma in South Asia.The regional nuclear security network in South Asia is characterized by asymmetry and the frequent involvement of great powers.As a result nuclear security in the region is much more complex than anywhere else in the world.Given the pessimistic outlook for nuclear security in South Asia, China should play a positive role by advocating for new views of security in the region and for the application of its concept of world harmony.This can help stable nuclear security in the region.