China-ASEAN Relations Expected to Remain Strong but Face Geopolitical Challenges - Analysts

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 14 (Bernama) -- China-ASEAN relations continue to expand across various sectors, but geopolitical challenges and superpower rivalry are expected to impact the dynamics of regional cooperation.

Security and International Relations Analyst at the University of Malaya, Collins Chong Yew Keat, said global political developments -- particularly the return of Donald Trump as President of the United States (US) -- is expected to significantly influence the direction of this relationship.

Referring to recent ASEAN meetings, he pointed out that China had once again reiterated its commitment to supporting ASEAN Community building and enhancing the bloc’s role in tackling regional challenges.

Chong highlighted China’s efforts to enhance ties with ASEAN across various sectors, including transport infrastructure, the blue economy, digital economy, supply chains, food security, and energy transition.

He viewed this as part of China’s broader strategy to solidify its influence in Southeast Asia, particularly at a time when the US appears to be scaling back its engagement in the region.

“With reduced foreign aid and defence support from the US, China sees this as an opportunity to expand its influence through various means, including trade, cultural influence, education, and people-to-people relations,” he said in an interview on Bernama TV’s programme ASEAN Petang Ini on Friday.

He added that ASEAN faces the challenge of balancing its economic reliance on China with its security partnerships with Western powers.

However, he emphasised that ASEAN must carefully navigate its relations with China to preserve the bloc’s centrality and protect regional sovereignty.

“This is a major test for ASEAN, particularly in managing its relations with China without compromising regional stability,” he said.

-- BERNAMA