abcnews.go.com
ASEAN, GCC, and China Summit Aims to Bolster Economic Resilience
ASEAN, the Gulf Cooperation Council, and China are holding a summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on October 24, 2023, to bolster economic resilience amidst global volatility and US tariffs; total trade between ASEAN and the GCC reached $130.7 billion in 2023.
- How does ASEAN's relationship with China and the US affect its economic resilience?
- This three-way summit reflects ASEAN's strategic balancing act between the US and China. While ASEAN members have overlapping territorial claims with China in the South China Sea, they also seek economic cooperation with China and other US rivals. This approach is influenced by past economic difficulties caused by US tariffs.
- What are the immediate economic implications of the ASEAN-GCC-China summit for Southeast Asia?
- ASEAN, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China are holding a summit to strengthen economic ties amid global uncertainty and US tariffs. Total trade between ASEAN and the GCC reached \$130.7 billion in 2023, highlighting the significance of this partnership. The summit aims to enhance interregional collaboration and build economic resilience.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of ASEAN's strategic balancing act between major global powers?
- The summit's success in fostering economic resilience will depend on navigating complex geopolitical dynamics. Continued reliance on both China and the US for economic and security support may lead to challenges for ASEAN as it seeks to maintain its neutral stance. This situation could potentially result in increased Chinese influence in the region.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the summit as primarily driven by a need for economic resilience in the face of global volatility and US tariffs, downplaying other potential motivations or agendas of the participating nations. The positive quotes from Anwar Ibrahim and Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al Sabah are prominently featured, reinforcing the cooperative narrative.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, but phrases such as "reliable ally" when describing China could be considered subtly biased. The description of Trump's tariffs as a "blow" is also emotionally charged.
Bias by Omission
The article omits discussion of potential downsides or drawbacks to increased economic cooperation with China, such as concerns about China's human rights record or its influence on regional politics. The focus remains primarily on economic benefits and resilience.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic view of ASEAN's relationship with both China and the US, suggesting a choice between closer ties with one or the other. The nuance of ASEAN's attempts to balance relationships with both major powers is underplayed.
Gender Bias
The article focuses primarily on male political leaders, with only Anwar Ibrahim and Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al Sabah quoted extensively. This lack of female voices could be an omission that skews the narrative.
Sustainable Development Goals
The summit aims to bolster economic resilience in Southeast Asia by enhancing interregional collaboration and securing sustainable prosperity. This directly contributes to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by promoting economic growth and creating opportunities for decent work.