Through short interviews with local experts, this series takes a closer look at the countries and regions impacted by and navigating through U. The countries of Southeast Asia represent a large diversity of diplomatic stances, tactics, and goals on the global political stage. Ho, for being here and being with our audience to talk about China and Southeast Asia and the U. Selina Ho : To answer your first question about Chinese influence in Southeast Asia, I think probably trade is the most visible sign of Chinese influence.
And that relationship has deepened and is continuing to deepen. Digital trade is a big part of this story. Alibaba has a huge presence in this region. So you can imagine that the impetus provided by COVID actually drove this digital trade to deal with this global supply chain disruptions.
And the other one off is, of course, the BRI. And there are some cultural similarities which make it easier for Chinese companies, relatively easier to function in this part of the world.
Now, the other side of Chinese influence in this part of the world is when you see countries increasingly taking into account Chinese preferences and interests when they make certain decisions. So, I mean, I consider these are the three key signs that Chinese influence of Chinese influence in this part of the world.
Are there one or two BRI projects that come to mind when you think of, you know, the most significant, the biggest and most ambitious, the most influential. Selina Ho : Yeah. Okay, so this is a bit of self-advertisement.
