When around forty years ago Australia started to establish relationships with South-East Asian countries, its economy was more prominent than the combined one of all five ASEAN members. Nowadays, each of these countries proves to be economically more successful than Australia and produces a greater number of goods. It is unclear whether the growth of South-East Asian states will remain to be prominent; however, these countries will play a crucial role when dealing with the quick rise of China. For this reason, it is in Australia’s interest to develop strong relationships with the ASEAN members to create a detailed strategy of managing China’s growing influence without harming the overall situation in the region. Furthermore, close cooperation between Australia and the countries of ASEAN will help to deal with the problems in various spheres of life and governance. The March Summit has already established a new plan for the partnership and proposed a number of programs for city renovation and terrorism laws.
More Engagement with ASEAN in Australia’s Best Hedge in Asia
In recent years, Australian democracy was described as ineffective in meeting the national interests of the country. However, the meeting of ASEAN Heads of the Government, which happened in March, was an important event that has to ensure a return to Australia’s power in the region. In addition to establishing a better connection with ASEAN by participating it meetings and closely communicating with other members of the organization, Australia has to communicate its intentions to China clearly. This strategy will prevent the emergence of conflicts between the governments and contribute to the creation of ways to improve the situation in the East Asia region. Moreover, Australia has to pay attention to strengthening the relationships with other countries, such as Laos and Cambodia, who also suffer from China’s superiority. Governments have to collectively develop strategies to manage China while providing enough space for its development and make the appearance of a violent conflict impossible.
A Shared Maritime Destiny for Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines
Various issues exist between Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines that have to be taken care of; however, what unites them is the shared maritime identity. These three countries are continually working to ensure security and promote stability in the marine sector. Their common aim is to preserve the marine environment and keep its safety on the desired level. Therefore, in the article, it is stated that in addition to establishing trustful relationships with South-East Asian states and connecting with ASEAN members, Australia has to grow closer to Indonesia and the Philippines. By constantly advancing its relations with the two mentioned countries, Australia will contribute to improving an understanding of maritime problems and encourage the development of necessary solutions to the identified issues.
The New Frontier: Can ASEAN Be This Decade’s China?
ASEAN can offer Australian businesses similar possibilities for advancement that China provided the country with for many years. Various statistics portray that the opportunities are enormous, and the results can be positive. Nevertheless, because of significant differences in social, geopolitical, and cultural environments, ASEAN has to take into consideration different ways of entering the Australian region. The association can also face several challenges when trying to influence the market, such as issues with the application of rules and problems concerning the compliance to the legal framework. In spite of all the difficulties, Australia has to take advantage of the opportunities provided by ASEAN and act immediately. As with China’s invasion ten years ago, the perspective of receiving the most beneficial outcome from ASEAN is possible and unique.