Opinion | China’s ‘model’ Southeast Asia ties reveal the limits of one-sided relations
- Beijing’s definition of ‘model’ ties looks non-controversial at first, but closer inspection reveals a certain type of behaviour being prescribed
- Despite the rhetoric, China behaves like any other big power and its own interests are always paramount – just look at the South China Sea
China has described the ties it has with several Southeast Asian nations as “model” relationships.
The appeal of such “model” relationships seems to have grown amid rising US-China tensions and growing wariness of China in the region.
According to Beijing’s rhetoric, countries in a “model” relationship should treat each other with respect and equality regardless of their size, wealth or strength; respect each other’s interests and not engage in activities that undermine these interests; focus more on strengthening cooperation and less on divisive issues; and pursue an independent foreign policy and refrain from taking sides.
Generally, China’s definition of a “model” relationship appears non-controversial. On closer scrutiny, however, China is prescribing how other countries ought to conduct their external relations, in ways with which they may not necessarily agree. For example, merely focusing on cooperation between states while ignoring their differences does not make for sustainable relationships.