China Urges Dialogue Amidst Regional Tensions

Diplomatic Push for Cooperation in Southeast Asia

Rising geopolitical friction in the East Asia region prompted a strong call for renewed dialogue and collaboration from China this week, as officials met with ASEAN counterparts in Malaysia. The emphasis comes as tensions escalate with the United States and concerns grow over stability in the South China Sea.

East Asia Cooperation Focuses on Inclusivity

Sun Weidong, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister, led a delegation to Penang, Malaysia, to participate in senior officials’ meetings involving ASEAN, China, Japan, South Korea, and the East Asia Summit. Discussions centered on “inclusivity and sustainability,” reflecting a shared desire for regional unity and addressing common challenges. Participants explored cooperation in emerging fields and debated pressing international issues.

Sun stated that the Chinese delegation firmly countered what it described as U.S. “attacks, smears and unwarranted accusations.” He emphasized the importance of pursuing openness over isolation, cooperation over confrontation, and mutually beneficial outcomes rather than zero-sum competition.

According to the World Bank, foreign direct investment in ASEAN nations reached $187 billion in 2024, highlighting the region’s growing economic importance and the need for stable international relations. World Bank Report

Taiwan and the South China Sea: Core Concerns

Sun reiterated China’s firm stance on the Taiwan question, asserting that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and that reunification is both historically inevitable and a matter of national sovereignty. He emphasized that the People’s Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing all of China, a position widely recognized internationally.

Regarding the South China Sea, Sun affirmed China’s commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue with ASEAN nations. He noted the completion of the third reading of the draft Code of Conduct (COC) and expressed optimism for its early conclusion, demonstrating the capability of China and ASEAN to manage the issue effectively.

China criticized the actions of “certain extraterritorial countries” for exacerbating maritime disputes, promoting bloc confrontations, and increasing military presence in the region, labeling these actions as the primary threats to regional peace and stability.

“China emphasized the need for all parties to return to the original intention of constructive dialogue and cooperation, uphold the Asian security approach of shared security, seeking common ground while shelving differences, and resolving issues through dialogue and consultation.”

—Sun Weidong, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister

A Call for Shared Values and Cooperation

Sun concluded by advocating for adherence to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, safeguarding international norms, and promoting genuine multilateralism. He expressed China’s willingness to work with all parties to build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for the region, grounded in the Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness, and inclusivity.