15 - Strategic Dimension of ASEAN-China Economic Relations

Summary

INTRODUCTION

ASEAN-China relations appear to be successfully entering a new phase, as both sides emphasize a mutually-enriching relationship. Of particular importance are China's reduction of its “threat” to its southern neighbours, as well as its “soft power” projection, so as to stabilize the region, before effectively contributing to economic and financial cooperation across Southeast Asia.

Firstly, China, in its “peaceful rise”, has inexorably succeeded in reducing ASEAN's threat perception of Beijing, thus contributing to regional peace and stability; this could probably be the foremost contribution of both China and ASEAN (reciprocally) towards laying down the foundation of the future East Asian Community, as this project would never have been possible in the 1960s and 1970s, when there was significant mistrust between Beijing and the ASEAN capitals.

Secondly, China's attempts in reducing its “threat” have in fact, also increased its “soft power” projection across Southeast Asia through its cultural prowess and an active but more discreet diplomacy; this is currently bearing fruit within ASEAN, at least much more effectively than the more heavy handed American diplomacy. Southeast Asian governments and public opinion seem to have by and large accepted China, an emerging Chinese role in Asian politics and economics and its cultural position, thanks also to the special role played by the Chinese diaspora in the region.

Lastly, ASEAN and China have increased their economic and regional cooperation in four areas, which could clearly lay down the foundation and basis of the future East Asian Community. The roles of Beijing and ASEAN capitals, based on a foundation of peace and stability, and in pursuing greater economic cooperation, could even form the core of East Asian Community-building, as what Beijing hopes to achieve through its “Ten+1” initiative with ASEAN.

These three aspects have indeed formed the strategic dimension of China's long-term relations with ASEAN.

TOWARDS A MUTUAL RELATIONSHIP OF REGIONAL TRUST AND CONFIDENCE

Lowering the “China threat” and establishing mutual confidence and trust between China and ASEAN appear to be Beijing's first priorities, especially in the last fifteen to twenty years of their relationship.