Encouragement for US-China Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific by Malaysian Prime Minister – Sky Bulletin
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During a notable speech in MELBOURNE, Australia, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim suggested on Thursday that America’s approach to international relations has shifted toward a more “transactional” nature, which relies on a system of incentives and sanctions to interact with other nations. He emphasized the need for the US to work closely with China to foster cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.
Anwar stressed that Asian countries should avoid becoming entangled in the adversarial dynamics between Western powers and China regarding strategic dominance in the area. He also refuted claims from the West that Malaysia is overly lenient when it comes to China’s increasingly assertive behavior in the South China Sea.
In his dialogue at Australian National University, Anwar called for understanding China’s point of view, explaining that Chinese officials perceive opposition to the country’s rise as an effort to undermine their “legitimate place in history.”
The Prime Minister of Malaysia accentuated the importance of Malaysia and Australia working together to inspire the US, China, and other key actors within the Asia-Pacific region to employ strategies that promote regional collaboration and economic unity.
He warned that without the engagement of Southeast Asian countries, the regional dynamic could be overwhelmingly influenced by the strategic plans of the great powers.
Anwar also touched upon major societal and political transformations in the US over recent decades, such as globalization, which has benefited the Asian labor force at the expense of the US manufacturing sector, and the psychological toll of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan on the American public.
Anwar observed a resulting trend in the US favoring leaders who prioritize transactional relationships internationally.
He noted that the traditional Washington consensus is weakening or perhaps no longer exists.
Anwar highlighted that Western visions of the future global structure should not be expected to prevail globally without challenge.
Addressing China’s contested actions in the South China Sea without explicitly naming the country, Anwar stated, “We may not turn a blind eye” to violations of international law.
FAQ Section
- What message did the Malaysian Prime Minister convey?
The Prime Minister urged for enhanced cooperation between the US and China in the Asia-Pacific region, and encouraged other nations not to take sides in the rivalry between Western powers and China. - What criticisms did the Malaysian Prime Minister address?
Anwar refuted Western criticism that Malaysia is too accommodating of China, especially concerning the South China Sea disputes. - What concern did he have regarding the influence of major powers in the Asia-Pacific?
Anwar expressed concern that without the participation of Southeast Asian nations, the future of the region could be dictated by the major powers. - How did he describe recent changes in US politics?
He discussed the US turning more transactional in foreign affairs and moving away from what’s known as the Washington consensus, as well as the impact of globalization and overseas conflicts on American society. - Did Anwar criticize China’s actions in the South China Sea?
Without directly naming China, he implied disapproval of any nation that disregards international law, which pertains to legally baseless claims in the South China Sea.
Conclusion
The call for cooperation made by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim comes at a crucial time as the Asia-Pacific encounters increased tension from the strategic rivalry between the West and China. Anwar’s balanced approach, advocating for open dialogue and cooperation over confrontation and rivalry, reflects the complexity of modern international relations where the regional dynamics of power significantly influence global stability and progress. As nations in Southeast Asia seek to navigate these complex waters, the prime minister’s message underscores the importance of seeking a diplomatic balance that respects international law and promotes mutual economic growth.
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