China held a record number of military exercises with ASEAN states in 2023. What’s fuelling the spike?

China’s defence engagements in the region are smaller in scale and largely bilateral compared to that of the US. But these could actually be in Beijing’s favour, say analysts. According to Dr Hoo Tiang Boon, associate professor at NTU’s SSS, defence diplomacy and engagements can help play down talk of the China threat, particularly in Southeast Asia. They also showcase Chinese military professionalism. Nevertheless, Dr Hoo says that Southeast Asian nations have to balance their ties with both great powers. 

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