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Abstract
This article examines the trajectory of China–ASEAN relations in the early 21st century, emphasizing trade growth, security dialogues, and territorial disputes in the South China Sea. It highlights both the opportunities of economic complementarity and the challenges of maritime tensions. The analysis suggests that the future of the relationship will hinge on balancing cooperation with competition.
Full Text
The body traces the institutional evolution from the ASEAN–China Free Trade Area to regional security mechanisms like the ASEAN Regional Forum. It highlights trade interdependence, infrastructure financing under initiatives like the Belt and Road’s precursors, and the importance of ASEAN centrality. The study devotes special attention to South China Sea disputes, code of conduct negotiations, and US involvement. It argues that ASEAN must strike a careful balance: leveraging Chinese economic opportunities while safeguarding security interests. The article ends by evaluating scenarios for regional order in East Asia shaped by Sino–US rivalry.