global.chinadaily.com.cn
ASEAN strengthens ties with BRICS amid rising global protectionism
ASEAN is strengthening its partnership with BRICS amid rising US trade barriers and global protectionism, with Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan advocating for the Global South to reshape international cooperation, highlighting ASEAN's $3.8 trillion GDP as a significant asset in this endeavor.
- How does Malaysia's role as ASEAN chair and a BRICS partner contribute to the strengthening of South-South cooperation?
- The shift towards South-South cooperation between ASEAN and BRICS is driven by a perceived instability and unreliability of the current world economic order, characterized by rising protectionism and trade barriers. Mohamad Hasan's statement points to a strategic repositioning of ASEAN, leveraging its economic strength to influence global cooperation and promote a more inclusive system. This reflects a broader trend of developing nations seeking alternatives to Western-dominated institutions.
- What is the primary driver behind ASEAN's strengthened cooperation with BRICS, and what are the immediate implications for global economic governance?
- ASEAN, chaired by Malaysia, is strengthening its ties with BRICS in response to rising US trade barriers and global protectionism. Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan emphasized the need for the Global South to lead in reshaping international cooperation, citing the current international system's instability. He highlighted ASEAN's significant economic power, including a combined GDP of $3.8 trillion, as a key asset in this endeavor.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of this growing collaboration between ASEAN and BRICS for the global economic landscape and international relations?
- ASEAN's engagement with BRICS signals a potential paradigm shift in global economic governance. The long-term impact could involve the creation of alternative trade routes, financial mechanisms, and development initiatives, reducing reliance on Western-centric systems. This collaboration may lead to new global norms and institutions better reflecting the interests and priorities of developing nations, potentially challenging the existing global order.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the narrative in a way that strongly supports ASEAN-BRICS cooperation and presents it as a solution to global economic instability. The headline and introduction emphasize the positive potential of this cooperation and the significant purchasing power of ASEAN. The Minister's quotes are carefully selected and presented to reinforce this positive framing. The negative aspects of the current international system are emphasized, while potential challenges or drawbacks of increased ASEAN-BRICS cooperation are downplayed or ignored. This creates a biased narrative that encourages a positive interpretation of the situation and promotes a specific political viewpoint.
Language Bias
While the article uses mostly neutral language, there is a noticeable pattern of using terms that favorably portray ASEAN-BRICS cooperation, such as "inclusive development," "pragmatic multilateralism," and "economic resilience." These terms carry positive connotations and subtly influence the reader's perception. Conversely, the current international system is described with words carrying negative connotations such as "eroding" and "undermining." Suggesting more neutral alternatives like "shifting global dynamics" or "evolving international cooperation" would improve objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the perspective of Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan and the potential benefits of ASEAN-BRICS cooperation. Alternative viewpoints, such as critiques of BRICS or concerns about the potential downsides of South-South cooperation, are omitted. The article does not address potential criticisms of BRICS or explore any counterarguments to the narrative presented by the Malaysian Foreign Minister. This omission limits the reader's ability to form a complete understanding of the complexities of the issue. The article also omits details about the specific trade barriers and protectionist trends being referenced, which are only alluded to vaguely. This lack of specifics reduces the reader's ability to verify the claims.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the choice as between the current international system (implied as problematic) and a new path of South-South cooperation led by BRICS and ASEAN. It oversimplifies a complex global political and economic landscape, ignoring alternative approaches or potential compromises. The narrative suggests that cooperation with BRICS is the only viable option for the Global South, neglecting alternative forms of multilateralism or regional cooperation.
Gender Bias
The article focuses on the statements and actions of male political figures. There is no mention of female leaders or perspectives within ASEAN or BRICS. The lack of female representation in the discussion of a major geopolitical issue constitutes a bias by omission. While there isn't overt gendered language, the lack of diversity in sources presents a skewed perspective.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the potential of strengthened South-South cooperation between ASEAN and BRICS to reshape international cooperation and better serve the needs of developing countries. This directly addresses the goal of reducing inequalities between developed and developing nations by promoting a more inclusive and equitable global order.