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China-Southeast Asia relations – Update as of 08/09/2024

The files we follow: China in the Indo-Pacific; Chinese Defence and Taiwan Strait; China-Russia relations; China and the Middle East; Chinese economic strategies and tendencies; Dynamics and challenges of Chinese international tourism; Chinese influence in Southeast Asia

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Dear EurasiaPeace readers,

Welcome to our monthly ‘Chinese Influence in Southeast Asia’ watch. This watch will focus on relations between China and the various ASEAN member countries. Happy reading!

China geopolitical watch : August saw an intensification of China’s diplomatic activity in Southeast Asia.

  • Consolidation of Strategic and Security Partnership with Indonesia

On August 13, Indonesia and China held the 2+2 SOM meeting to strengthen their strategic partnership. The Chinese delegation, led by Sun Weidong, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the PRC, discussed bilateral cooperation on regional security and stability, with a particular focus on counter-terrorism efforts. On August 26, Beijing and Jakarta further deepened their bilateral relations by launching joint military exercises, marking a decade since their last joint maneuvers. This military cooperation signifies a notable rapprochement with Beijing, sending a signal to Washington. Traditionally more aligned with the United States, Indonesia seems to be signaling a desire for strategic neutrality, not wanting to align exclusively with either of the two powers. As the leader of ASEAN, Jakarta thus asserts its key role in maintaining regional stability.

 

  • Strengthening Chinese Presence in Southeast Asia

On August 14, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi embarked on a four-day tour of several Southeast Asian countries aimed at consolidating regional relations amidst rising tensions in the South China Sea. Wang Yi first visited Myanmar, where he met former Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Than Shwe before heading to Thailand to co-chair the ninth Foreign Ministers’ Meeting of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC). This visit comes amid heightened tensions with the Philippines in the South China Sea. Beijing appears to be seeking to ease regional frictions by promoting a message of respect for sovereignty and defense against foreign interference.

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