The 21st China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), held in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, from Sept 24-28, brought together over 3,000 enterprises and extended its reach to participants from regions like the Middle East’s Persian Gulf states, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and Belt and Road Initiative participating countries. 

This annual event has become a symbol of the deepening partnership between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China, showcasing not only economic cooperation but also a harmonious diplomatic relationship rooted in ancient traditions of dialogue, consensus and mutual respect.

The success of CAEXPO serves as a prime example of how the ASEAN-China relationship can offer valuable lessons for global diplomacy and trade.

ASEAN-China trade boom

In recent years, ASEAN has emerged as China’s largest trading partner, surpassing both the European Union and the United States. Simultaneously, China has become ASEAN’s top trade partner, solidifying a symbiotic and ancient relationship where both sides benefit from robust economic exchanges. This unprecedented trade growth underscores a shift in the global economic landscape, where Asia is increasingly becoming the focal point of global commerce.

China’s burgeoning middle class has fueled demand for ASEAN agricultural products, such as durians from Thailand and bananas from the Philippines, while China’s manufacturing sector has found a lucrative market in ASEAN. This trade boom has been facilitated by initiatives such as the ASEAN-China free trade agreement and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the world’s largest trading bloc. These agreements have significantly lowered trade barriers, allowing for the seamless flow of goods, services, and investments.

But the ASEAN-China partnership transcends trade. It reflects a broader strategy of economic and diplomatic cooperation, in which regional stability and mutual progress are prioritized over confrontation and competition. This unique approach is anchored in the historical values of both ASEAN and China, which have long emphasized harmony, collaboration, and consensus as cornerstones of governance.

Both ASEAN and China have rich cultural heritages that emphasize the importance of consensus and peaceful dialogue in resolving disputes. This shared Asian cultural foundation has influenced their modern-day diplomatic approach, where issues are resolved through negotiations rather than conflict. In an increasingly polarized world, the ASEAN-China model of diplomacy stands out as a source of hope, an exemplar of multilateralism and cooperation.

China’s BRI, which connects Asia with Africa, Europe and beyond, exemplifies this philosophy. By focusing on infrastructure development, trade connectivity, and economic cooperation, the BRI has fostered global partnerships that transcend geographical and even political boundaries. ASEAN’s participation in the BRI has further strengthened its ties with China, opening up new avenues for investment and development across the region.

Regional stability, global influence

One of the key reasons the ASEAN-China partnership works so well is its emphasis on regional stability. Both parties recognize that peace is a prerequisite for sustained economic growth. In contrast to other global powers that often prioritize competition and geopolitical maneuvering, ASEAN and China have adopted a win-win approach that seeks to benefit both sides. This partnership is not just about economic gains; it is about ensuring that the region remains stable and peaceful, creating an environment in which prosperity can flourish.

The RCEP has been another significant catalyst in promoting this stability. RCEP brings together ASEAN, China, and other major economies like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, creating a vast economic zone that promotes free trade and investment. This framework, which encourages dialogue and collaboration, is a testament to the ASEAN-China partnership’s role in fostering multilateralism.

Moreover, CAEXPO’s expansion to include participants from the Gulf states and other regions like Central Asia and Europe highlights ASEAN and China’s growing influence in global trade and diplomacy. These partnerships are built on mutual benefit and respect, focusing on shared development goals rather than zero-sum competition. This is a model the world can learn from, especially in times of rising geopolitical tensions.

An Asian renaissance

The ASEAN-China partnership is also emblematic of the broader renaissance Asia has experienced in recent years. Economic growth rates across the region have been remarkable, with countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia and the Philippines emerging as dynamic economies. China’s rapid development, particularly in technology and infrastructure, has not only propelled its own economy but has also acted as a positive catalyst for growth across ASEAN.

Tourism, a key sector for many ASEAN countries, has also benefited from closer ties with China. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese tourists were the largest group of visitors to ASEAN countries, injecting billions of dollars into local economies. As travel restrictions ease, this trend is expected to resume, further bolstering ASEAN-China ties. Moreover, the influx of Chinese investments in ASEAN’s tourism infrastructure — airports, hotels, and transport networks — has created a more interconnected and accessible region for international travelers.

A model for global cooperation

In an era of rising protectionism and geopolitical tensions, the ASEAN-China partnership offers a compelling alternative. By prioritizing dialogue, cooperation, and mutual benefit, this partnership has not only enhanced economic prosperity for both parties but has also contributed to regional and global stability. The annual CAEXPO serves as a tangible reminder of what can be achieved when nations work together in pursuit of common goals.

As the world faces complex challenges like climate change, pandemics, and economic inequality, the ASEAN-China model of diplomacy and trade cooperation offers valuable lessons. It demonstrates that consensus-building, rather than confrontation, is the key to solving global problems.

By focusing on shared development and mutual respect, ASEAN and China have created a partnership that is both resilient and forward-looking — a model that other regions should consider adopting.

In sum, the ASEAN-China partnership is more than just a regional success story. It is a blueprint for how nations can work together to create a more stable, prosperous, and peaceful world.

The author is a multiaward-winning columnist of the Philippine Star and Abante, an economics and politics analyst, a book author, and moderator of the Pandesal Forum.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.