While touring Southeast Asia, Chinese President Xi Jinping started promoting the “Asian family” idea and called for unity to counter U.S.’ attempt to sever China’s trade relationship with other countries in the region.
Xi has made the first overseas trip this year to countries in Southeast Asia, with an intent to prevent them from making deals with the U.S. When Xi visited Malaysia, he gave a speech about solidarity during a state dinner.
The Chinese president stated that China and Malaysia will stand alongside Southeast Asia nations to fight “the undercurrents of geopolitical and bloc-based confrontation.” Xi also stated that both nations will protect the bright prospects of their Asian family.
China and Malaysia jointly announced the implementation of Five-Year Programme for Economic and Trade Cooperation and the building of a “high-level strategic joint community.” Their goal is to fortify the collaboration on industry, supply chains, data and talent.
Afterward, Xi seemingly criticized the U.S. as he highlighted his calls for a fight against unilateralism on Cambodia media before heading to its capital city, Phnom Penh.
Previously before visiting Malaysia, the Chinese president was in Vietnam and after signing 45 economic deals with its leaders, they both agreed on an intention to oppose unilateralism and any that threaten the peace and stability of the region.
The trade war between China and the U.S. has been escalating lately. The U.S. President Donald Trump recently increased the tariff rate on China to 245% after China imposed a 125% levy in response to Trump’s previous duties.
Bloomberg News also reported that the U.S. is aiming to pressure several countries in limiting China’s manufacturing capability, which includes imposing secondary tariffs on goods from China for tariff concessions with the U.S.
Many nations are now searching for measures that can satisfy two largest economies in the world.
