In a recent dialogue in Guangzhou, Singapore’s Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong emphasized the importance of constructive coupling over decoupling in fostering robust China-ASEAN relations. Speaking at the Understanding China-Greater Bay Area Dialogue, Goh highlighted China's remarkable economic growth, now accounting for over 18% of global GDP, and its positive impact on regional development.
Goh commended Singapore’s longstanding partnership with China, noting that collaborative efforts have led to numerous win-win outcomes for both nations. He highlighted the significant trade relationship between ASEAN and China, with two-way investments exceeding $340 billion. Goh stressed the potential for further deepening these ties through the upgrade of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA), advocating for enhanced regional economic integration and a stronger multilateral trading system.
He warned against the dangers of destructive decoupling, which he argues could harm global economic growth, supply chain resilience, and essential sectors like food and energy security. Instead, Goh called for upholding a rules-based international order, supporting open and updated multilateral trade systems, and fostering constructive coupling through agreements like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
Goh concluded by urging countries to adopt a positive-sum approach, promoting prosperity through cooperation rather than conflict, to ensure a more interconnected and prosperous global economy.
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The world needs constructive coupling rather than decoupling
cgtn.com
