China's quiet diplomacy vital for ASEAN

In an era marked by complex geopolitical shifts, the relationship between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations shines as a beacon of constructive engagement and mutual benefit.

Since establishing dialogue relations in 1991, the two sides have cultivated a comprehensive strategic partnership that prioritizes peace, economic integration and cultural understanding.

This partnership not only bolsters regional stability but also serves as a model for harmonious coexistence among neighbors.

China has consistently demonstrated its commitment to ASEAN's peace and stability through diplomatic initiatives, economic support and cultural exchanges.

As ASEAN's largest trading partner, China plays a pivotal role in fostering economic resilience across the region. Bilateral trade has reached impressive levels, underscoring deep interdependence.

Initiatives such as the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area and the Belt and Road Initiative have facilitated infrastructure development, investment and connectivity, creating jobs and driving sustainable growth in member states.

Beyond economics, security cooperation is the cornerstone of the relationship. China supports ASEAN's efforts to maintain a nuclear weapon-free zone and collaborates on addressing transnational challenges such as piracy, drug trafficking and non-traditional security threats.

Through mechanisms such as the ASEAN Regional Forum, both sides engage in dialogue to build trust and manage differences peacefully, particularly in the maritime realm.

China's advocacy for "Asian solutions to Asian problems" emphasizes dialogue and consultation, reinforcing ASEAN centrality in regional affairs.

Cultural and people-to-people ties further deepen this partnership. Exchanges in education, tourism, arts and youth programs have fostered mutual understanding among over two billion people.

Flagship events and subnational cooperation, such as those in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, highlight the vibrant socio-cultural dimension that strengthens the sense of a shared future.

A shining example of China's contribution to peace and stability in ASEAN is its active facilitation in resolving the tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.

In 2025, the resurgence of longstanding border disputes escalated into an armed confrontation between the two countries, resulting in tragic loss of life and the displacement of civilians.

Demonstrating quiet yet effective diplomacy, China stepped forward as a trusted mediator.

Foreign ministers and senior officials from China, Cambodia, and Thailand held trilateral meetings in Yunnan province and in Beijing.

These meetings provided a neutral platform for dialogue, leading to ceasefire agreements, confidence-building measures, and commitments to peaceful resolution through bilateral and regional mechanisms.

China welcomed joint statements from Cambodia and Thailand and supported the implementation of the consensus reached, helping restore calm along the border.

Such mediations highlight China's constructive approach: offering good offices without imposing solutions and respecting the sovereignty and agency of the parties involved.

By hosting these talks, China helped prevent further escalation, protected civilian lives, and contributed to the broader stability of Southeast Asia.

This not only helped mend bilateral frictions but also safeguarded ASEAN unity, which is vital for the bloc's collective strength.

The ripple effects are profound. Durable peace between Cambodia and Thailand will foster longer-term unity within ASEAN, enabling the organization to focus on shared goals such as economic integration and sustainable development.

A cohesive ASEAN, in turn, enhances its strategic partnership with China, creating a virtuous cycle of trust and cooperation.

It is hoped that China will continue to push for enduring peace in this and other potential hot spots, leveraging its growing influence to support regional harmony.

Looking ahead, there is strong optimism that China's role in ASEAN will continue to grow. As a responsible major power and good neighbor, China can deepen its contributions across security dialogues, economic corridors, and cultural initiatives.

This evolution aligns with the vision of building a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future marked by peace, prosperity and amity.

China's humble, quiet and pragmatic approach to addressing challenges in ASEAN is something that all parties can readily accept.

By prioritizing mutual respect, win-win outcomes, and non-interference, China ensures that solutions bring relief rather than suffering to any side.

Rooted in patience, fairness, and long-term vision, this philosophy has proven effective in bridging divides and building consensus.

As China and ASEAN navigate the future together, this measured diplomacy will undoubtedly continue to yield dividends for regional peace and shared prosperity, benefiting not only the countries concerned but the entire region.

The author is the secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia.

The views are the author's own, and don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily or the Royal Academy of Cambodia.

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