There is a subtle sneakiness about the Chinese government's more recent, seemingly cooperative and peaceful relationship with the region's institutions.
One has to wonder with its increasing and impressive military buildup, what are its plans for the future? Could this be a ruse to supplant U.S. power in the region? Or is China truly seeking a peaceful political and economic integration of the Asian countries? Would other countries support a U.S.-Sino partnership in the future?
With regard to the Philippines, China has provided assistance with its Muslim terrorist insurgents in the South. They have also come to a solution to the maritime disagreements over the South China Seas.
Turning to Japan, historical issues continue to be a serious problem with the two countries. China believes there has been an absence of Japanese repentance and the Japanese have reached "apology fatigue". Japan's support of the U.S. with the Taiwan Strait and issues relating to it is also a point of contention. And finally, both countries face the challenge of equal coexistence.
The Thai have a more pragmatic relationship with China because of their $20 billion a year bilateral trade; however the trade deficit falls on the Thai side. There is also a large influx of Chinese immigrants to Thailand causing a greater political influence. And, China's support for Burma makes things a bit more difficult for Thailand.
As for Mongolia, China has shared a long border with them for many years, but China may be concerned with regard to its identity as more Mongolians immigrate to China.
For the most part, China is demonstrating that is wishes to work with other Asian countries as equal partners for the overall economic development of the region. China may be seeking to be the centerpiece of a stable, cooperative economic and politically viable region.
Their participation with ASEAN has certainly shown that China is moving in this direction. But with China's most recent turbulent history in the 20th century and its policy decisions, one never knows.
