KUALA LUMPUR: Asean’s engagement with China is guided by practical economics rather than politics with the intent of keeping regional stability, says an analyst.
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman assistant professor and policy analyst Liew Wui Chern said the 28th Asean-China Summit, held alongside the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits, highlights a relationship that remains pragmatic and economically driven yet tempered by geopolitical caution.
He said many Asean members are wary of being seen as leaning too closely towards Beijing amid ongoing trade and security tensions.
“Everyone is trying to manage the balance,” Liew said.
“Asean countries want Chinese trade and investment, but they’re also conscious of the risks, from tariff measures by Washington to technology restrictions that could spill into the region.”
Liew said China’s main objectives at this year’s summit are to consolidate its economic influence, project regional leadership and reassure Asean that its rise remains peaceful and respectful of Asean centrality.
He said Beijing will highlight progress under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the Belt and Road Initiative and newer areas such as green transition, infrastructure and maritime cooperation.
While the attendance of major powers adds symbolic weight to this year’s meetings, Liew believes discussions will stay grounded in stability and cooperation.
“The overall direction will remain pragmatic – deepening economic integration while managing political caution,” he said.
Lee Heng Guie, the executive director of the Socio-Economic Research Centre, the think tank of the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia, said the summit provides a timely platform for Asean and China to reaffirm their commitment to open regionalism and collaborative growth, especially as the global economy grows more fragmented.
He said both sides are expected to push for the upgrade of the Asean-China Free Trade Area and cooperation in next-generation sectors such as artificial intelligence, digital economy, clean energy and the blue economy.
“Asean’s non-interference principle and China’s neighbourhood diplomacy can work in tandem to support a more inclusive regional order,” Lee said.
He added that both sides have an interest in preserving peace and stability as a foundation for growth.
