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n international security conference in Singapore over the weekend lent credence to Indonesia’s vision of a “dynamic equilibrium” in the evolving geopolitical sphere of the Asia-Pacific region.

The Shangri-La Dialogue (named after the Singapore hotel at which it is held), an annual conference of defense ministers and experts, impressed upon participants and observers what this loosely defined idea might mean in terms of international relations.

In theory, a dynamic equilibrium would accommodate the roles and responsibilities of Asia’s new powers (China and lately India), recognize the geopolitical interests of the US and define a role for “middle” powers, particularly for those nations within ASEAN.

As Indonesian Defense Minister PurnomoYusgiantoro told the forum, a new security arrangement “should be geared to avoid any domination by being inclusive and transparent. It should also ensure stability through cooperation and address common challenges instead of developing alignments that are directed at one another.”

The emphasis was clearly on dialogue and cooperation. This approach takes into account the major geopolitical shifts that are taking place with the peaceful rise of China and India as economic and political powers, as well as assigning roles and places to medium and smaller states to promote peace and security in the region.

It is also clear from statements by defense leaders and experts that the US will continue to play a major role in Asia, not only because of its geopolitical interests, but more because it is a Pacific power, a geographic fact that no one can deny.

During the forum, US Defense Secretary Robert Gates offered a US$100 bet that America’s presence in Asia “will remain strong if not stronger” in spite of its weakening economy.

His wager may be a moot point since he is retiring soon, but the message is clear that the US will be part of the emerging security architecture. In this context, we welcome the expanded dialogue that US and China defense officials are holding to overcome their mutual suspicions.

Indonesia in the meantime should look for any opportunity to help shape a regional security structure that best serves its national interests.

A dynamic equilibrium seems the way to go.