In a US-China world, Asean must do more than avoid choosing sides

The recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington yielded no signs of confrontation, highlighting the ongoing "constructive strategic stability" between the two superpowers. As the world increasingly resembles a US-China rivalry, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) must go beyond merely avoiding alignment with either side.

While security concerns may push some countries towards the United States, and economic ties may draw others closer to China, the region must preserve the ability to make its own independent choices. Aligning with one power over the other does not guarantee support if interests diverge, as evidenced by Cambodia's close relationship with China during its border dispute with Thailand.

Moreover, US restrictions on advanced technologies impact third countries, including those in Southeast Asia, raising geopolitical significance in decisions related to technology, investment, and manufacturing. By subtracting the US and China from their mental maps, countries can explore opportunities with other powers for autonomy in what is termed a "Minus 2" world.

This approach can provide smaller countries with greater choices and agency, fostering a more multipolar world where the influence of both great powers is less dominant. ASEAN's upcoming summit offers an opportunity to strengthen relationships with a range of partners, advancing practical cooperation in areas such as the Asean Digital Economy Framework Agreement, power grid development, cross-border electricity trading, and regional supply chains.

By embracing a "Minus 2" mindset, ASEAN members can create more avenues for collaboration and bolster their strategic autonomy in an increasingly divided world.