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Chapter 3
Expanding Chinese Interests in ASEAN

It is therefore, critical for ASEAN to into an opportunity for creating a better

find ways to reach an arrangement on the future. Particularly, if China wants to be

best solutions to the South China Sea recognized not simply as a rising power

disputes. These may include the ideas of but also as a valued leader in Asia and
32
joint development, shared infrastructure beyond. China’s growing influence
and coordinated investment as well as means that there is a possibility to
Implications to ASEAN
30
international arbitration. The effectiveness shape the outlook of the region to become
and plausibility of success of these plans more peaceful and equally attractive to

will definitely increase if the involved foreign investments. This kind of thinking

parties allow their opposing objectives may be able to bring out a realism in

to exist together by reaching certain China, who may evolve to be a respected

compromises and adjusting their stand- and proud member of the regional and
points and priorities. All parties involved international communities. ASEAN
Evolving Geo-Strategic Matrix in South China Sea:
must disregard their suspicions on each nation must not ignore this chance

20 other intentions and work together as of commercial benefits and strategic
an explicit side across the region through partnerships. The common interest

dialogues. However, these ideas and between all parties in the region,

thinking are easier said than done. 31 including US, EU, ASEAN and China in

ensuring the safety and the freedom
Conclusion of navigation in the strategically and

economically important South China Sea

The question of South China Sea is undoubtedly the most important

disputes, though regarded as a major agenda to shape the future of the
geo-strategic flashpoint, can still be turned region.

30 Stewart Taggart, “A South China Sea Peace Plan,” Maritime Executive, 28 June 2014, http://www.maritime-
executive.com/article/A-South-China-Sea-Peace-Plan-2014-06-28.
31 “South China Sea Disputes Need Legal Solution,” Gulf News, 13 June 2014, http://gulfnews.com/
opinions/editorials/south-china-sea- disputes-need-legal-solution-1.1346822.
32 Jane Perlez, “Chinese President to Seek New Relationship with U.S. in Talks,” NewYork Times, 28 May 2013,
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/29/ world/asia/china-to-seek-more-equal-footing-with-us-in-talks.html.