The article discusses how Southeast Asian countries are working together to maintain peace and security in the region. They are facing challenges like disputes over territories, arms proliferation, and fragile peace agreements. Southeast Asian nations prefer to resolve conflicts using their own methods rather than adopting models from other regions. They see the United States as a key player in balancing power and trade, while China is not seen as a threat despite some concerns. Russia is seen as less influential in the region, and Japan is viewed as a peaceful military power.