专访前IMF驻华首席代表：中国与东盟应深化融合降低对外依赖

Core Insights - The shift from globalization to regionalization is becoming a more significant trend, particularly impacting emerging economies in Asia that rely on trade [2] - Stronger regional and bilateral cooperation is seen as the "only choice" amidst pressures on the multilateral system, with a focus on the growing trade and investment ties between China and Southeast Asian countries [2][3] - The region's approximately 600 million growing middle class presents a substantial opportunity for mutual benefits through deeper integration [2] Summary by Sections - Regional Cooperation - The emphasis on deeper mutual cooperation in the region aims to reduce dependence on external countries, especially the United States [2] - The ideal scenario involves further market openness and reduced trade and investment barriers to significantly increase bilateral trade and investment [2] - Supply Chain Dynamics - The fragmentation of global supply chains is acknowledged as a response to geopolitical tensions, but the positive significance of internal regional integration is highlighted [2] - China possesses significant comparative advantages in green technology, digital economy, and infrastructure, which ASEAN countries can leverage for mutual benefits [2] - China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 - The upgraded China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 is viewed positively as a means to deepen regional integration and further incorporate China's supply chains into ASEAN [3] - The success of the agreement hinges on execution capabilities, particularly in the context of geopolitical tensions [3]