Global Shifts: ASEAN Navigates U.S.-China Tensions

Global political dynamics are shifting as nations navigate heightened competition and collaboration challenges. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlights the 'Goldilocks problem' of U.S.-China relations, emphasizing that nothing remains purely trade-related and that all international interactions are becoming personal and strategic. ASEAN, under Malaysia's chairmanship, is working towards maintaining strong ties with China, Japan, and South Korea while promoting free trade principles amidst U.S.-China tariff escalations. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao expresses willingness to enhance China-ASEAN cooperation to counter U.S. tariff actions. Malaysia and China are poised to propose a new framework of cooperative leadership during President Xi Jinping's visit, seeking to establish a values-driven system of civilizational cooperation, aimed at strengthening global governance without Western ideological dominance.