Influence of energy security on China's foreign policy

This dissertation examines the influence of energy security over China's foreign policy, and whether China's approach to energy security will lead it to compete or cooperate with other energy-seeking states. In approaching the analysis, I examine China's energy security strategies through realist and liberal perspectives, finally applying securitization theory to an examination of whether energy can be considered a security issue for China. I conclude that while China has adopted realist strategies to secure overseas supplies of energy, it has attempted, and for its self-interest will continue, to embrace liberal strategies to energy security.Master of Science (International Relations