China and ASEAN: A Global Partnership for a Sustainable Future

China's commitment to its relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a cornerstone of its global strategy, emphasizing shared prosperity and stability. This partnership, viewed through an international lens, is not merely a regional alliance but a model for global cooperation. The focus on ASEAN reflects China's broader vision for a more equitable and orderly world, where multilateralism and mutual respect are paramount. China's economic engagement with ASEAN is substantial. In 2023, trade between China and ASEAN reached RMB 3.36 trillion (US$468.8 billion), making ASEAN China's largest trading partner. This robust economic relationship is a testament to the benefits of open markets and collaborative trade policies. Furthermore, China's direct investment in ASEAN countries surged, with a 34.7 percent increase year-on-year in 2023, demonstrating the growing confidence and interconnectedness between the two regions. Beyond economics, China and ASEAN are actively cooperating in various sectors, including non-traditional security, science and technology, and digital ecosystems. This multifaceted cooperation underscores the importance of a comprehensive strategic partnership. The China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (FTA) 3.0 negotiations have reached a substantial conclusion, providing an institutional guarantee for further collaboration. This partnership is a key element in shaping a more stable and prosperous global landscape.