The Study on China-ASEAN Cooperation under “the Belt and Road” Initiative

Abstract

Since “the Belt and Road” initiative was proposed ten years ago, ASEAN has always been a priority region. China and Southeast Asian countries, adhering to the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, have made significant achievements in political consultation, economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, environmental protection, and other aspects. In the new international political and economic situation, both sides are facing challenges from factors such as intervention from foreign powers, political uncertainty within ASEAN countries, competition for economic development space, and misunderstanding and concerns about China’s rise. Nevertheless, China and ASEAN are geographically connected by mountains and rivers, historically by humanities. With the RCEP implemented and the RMB regionalized in ASEAN, cooperation between China and ASEAN in emerging fields such as the digital commerce and green energy will see more benefits. In order to better promote China ASEAN cooperation, China should maintain the regional center status of ASEAN, solidly promote bilateral trade and enterprise investment, through cultural exchanges and international public opinion promotion, tell China’s story well, win the hearts of ASEAN people, and enhance trust between each other.