China's 'Vaccine Diplomacy' to ASEAN... Promise of Additional Vaccine Supply

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Yuri Kim] China has promised to increase its provision of COVID-19 vaccines to ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). This is seen as an attempt by China to expand its influence through "vaccine diplomacy" in response to the United States' efforts to strengthen its influence over ASEAN.

Wang Yi, China's State Councilor and Foreign Minister, stated at the special foreign ministers' meeting commemorating the 30th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue relations held yesterday in Chongqing, "China has already sent 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines and epidemic prevention supplies to ASEAN countries."

He said, "China will play a responsible role in the international community and provide vaccines to ASEAN as much as possible," adding, "We will strengthen cooperation with each country in vaccine research and development, production, procurement, and inoculation."

He proposed a higher level of strategic partnership with ASEAN. He emphasized, "Let us strengthen relations through high-level exchanges and expanded strategic communication between leaders," and "Develop China-ASEAN relations into a comprehensive strategic partnership to demonstrate our willingness to cooperate and set new standards for bilateral cooperation."

Introducing the dual circulation strategy, an economic policy focused on domestic development, he argued that this policy will provide more opportunities to countries around the world, including ASEAN.

To resolve the South China Sea issue, which is a source of conflict between China and some ASEAN countries, he also urged the establishment of a "Code of Conduct in the South China Sea." He stated, "We must show confidence and wisdom by promptly establishing an effective code of conduct that complies with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the region."