The president’s trip, which will take place from April 14th to 18th, will focus on strengthening Beijing’s already excellent political, economic, and social relations with its neighbors. It comes amid an escalation of the United States’ tariff war against the three countries, which are part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which has become China’s main trading partner.

Xi Jinping called this week for the opening and strengthening of a new chapter in regional relations. “We must focus on building a community of shared destiny with our neighbors,” the president emphasized at a high-level meeting.

The conference emphasized that the countries surrounding China are fundamental to China’s development, national security, and global diplomacy. Although relations with Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia are at their best, they also face challenges arising from profound global changes. To address these challenges, it was proposed to work under the principles of a community of shared destiny and the Asian values ​​of peace, cooperation, and openness.

Attendees emphasized that the Belt and Road Initiative will continue to be a key platform for promoting regional economic integration and development. They also pointed out the need to consolidate strategic mutual trust, manage differences, and deepen economic and security cooperation.

China recently highlighted the potential for economic development in the region, which is projected to grow 4.5 percent by 2025 and increase its share of the global economy to 48.6 percent.

jrr/llp/npg/idm