30 years of China and ASEAN: Why ties matter

Summary

The video script from 'World Inside' discusses the 30th anniversary of China-ASEAN relations, emphasizing robust trade and regional stability despite pandemic and geopolitical tensions. The 24th China-ASEAN Summit highlights the need for inclusive development, better coordination on pandemic response, and innovation-driven strategies for high-quality growth. Experts weigh in on the importance of cooperation in vaccine distribution, economic recovery, and addressing climate change, reflecting the complex interplay of health, economic, and security issues in the region.

Takeaways

• 🌏 The 24th China-ASEAN Summit focuses on defeating the pandemic and spurring economic recovery.
• 💉 Chinese Premier Li Keqiang emphasized the importance of public health cooperation with science and technology.
• 📈 China and ASEAN countries aim to deepen regional integration by leveraging their geographical proximity and complementary industries.
• 🔬 Premier Li highlighted the need for inclusive development to address the pandemic-induced regional economic gaps.
• 🌿 China seeks to expand green cooperation with ASEAN to tackle climate change and protect biodiversity.
• 🤝 ASEAN countries are gradually opening up and adjusting to the post-pandemic situation, necessitating continued cooperation.
• 💪 The China-ASEAN summit emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in vaccine distribution and medical supplies.
• 🌐 The summit discussed the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and its role in promoting free trade and economic integration.
• 🔒 ASEAN countries strive to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability and regional security.
• 🚫 ASEAN avoids a beggar-thy-neighbor policy, promoting multilateral cooperation and avoiding economic isolation.

Q & A

What is the significance of the 24th China-ASEAN Summit?

The 24th China-ASEAN Summit is significant as it marks the 30th anniversary of the dialogue relationship between China and ASEAN. It focuses on discussing ways to defeat the pandemic and spur economic recovery, emphasizing the need for better coordination on regional pandemic response and public health cooperation.

How does China view its relationship with ASEAN in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic?

China views its relationship with ASEAN as strong, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang called for better coordination on the regional pandemic response and to empower public health cooperation with science and technology.

What does China propose to deepen regional integration with ASEAN?

China proposes to harness the strengths of geographical proximity and complementary industries to deepen regional integration. This includes leveraging the benefits of being close neighbors and having industries that complement each other's for mutual economic growth.

What is China's stance on inclusive development in the context of the pandemic?

China emphasizes the need for inclusive development as the pandemic has widened the gap in the region. It calls for better synergizing strategies between China and ASEAN countries to expand the pie of common interests.

How does China approach green cooperation with ASEAN to tackle climate change?

China is keen on expanding green cooperation with ASEAN to address climate change and protect biodiversity. It stresses the importance of working together on environmental initiatives and sustainable development.

What is the current situation of ASEAN countries in terms of opening up amidst the pandemic?

Many ASEAN countries are at the stage of slowly and gradually opening up amidst the pandemic. This comes with adjustment pains and periods as people come into close contact with each other, highlighting the importance of timely calls from China and ASEAN for cooperation in managing the pandemic.

What is the role of science and technology in the regional pandemic response as proposed by China?

Science and technology play a crucial role in the regional pandemic response as proposed by China. It involves empowering public health cooperation through scientific advancements and technological solutions to better manage and control the spread of the virus.

How does the script describe the approach of ASEAN countries towards managing the pandemic?

The script describes a varied approach among ASEAN countries towards managing the pandemic. Some countries are proactive with measures, while others may feel overwhelmed, indicating the need for a balanced approach that considers both health and economic impacts.

What are the key areas of cooperation between China and ASEAN as discussed in the summit?

The key areas of cooperation between China and ASEAN include pandemic prevention and control, vaccine development and distribution, economic recovery, green development, and regional integration.

How does the script address the issue of security and geopolitical tensions in the region?

The script addresses security and geopolitical tensions by discussing the impact of the United States' actions in organizing exclusive groups like the Quad, which could potentially undermine ASEAN's centrality and lead to division or arms races in the region.

What is ASEAN's strategy in dealing with regional security issues such as the South China Sea?

ASEAN's strategy is to maintain neutrality and act as a platform for dialogue and cooperation among major powers, avoiding taking sides and supporting an inclusive regional architecture that contributes to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.