The Dragon Looks South - China and Southeast Asia in the New Century

1. It is important to understand China’s growing influence in Southeast Asia, because more than half a billion people live in the region, because that region is fifth largest trading partner of both the US and China, and because Southeast Asia sit astride China and the rest of East Asia’s energy windpipe. The most consistent and predictable component of the complicated relationship between China and Southeast Asia has been Beijing’s comprehensive strategy for that region over the past decade.
2. A central argument is that China’s success is inexplicable without exploring the politics, economics, cultures, and foreign policies of the states od Southeast Asia. This region is among the world’s most ethnically, politically and economically diverse and is divided into eleven independent states. Any attempt to treat this region as one state or economy in relation to China distorts reality. It also fails to explain why China has been more successful in one state or part of the region than in another.
3. China’s approach and its appeal to the region has remained remarkably consistent over the past decade. The most significant change has been a decision by Beijing, in early 2001, to avoid direct criticism of or opposition to American policies in Southeast Asia. To achieve its goal China needs non-confrontational relations with the US.