On June 18, 2025, the Asia Pacific Initiative (API) hosted a roundtable welcoming Professor Yuen Foong Khong from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore.

During the session, Professor Khong presented his research on the theme, “In an era of great power competition between the US and China, which side are Southeast Asian countries leaning towards?” This presentation served as the foundation for a lively exchange of opinions with API experts. The discussion spanned a wide range of topics, including the interpretation of trends in Southeast Asian countries as shown by Professor Khong’s dataset, the specific situations of individual ASEAN nations, the impact on Japan-ASEAN relations and Japanese businesses, and even the role of values in the international order.

The discussion offered deep insights into the complex position faced by Southeast Asian countries amidst persistent strong economic interdependence between the US and China, and how each nation attempts to balance security and economic interests. Furthermore, the conversation extended to concrete opportunities for Japan to strengthen its ties with ASEAN countries and contribute to regional stability and prosperity, providing diverse perspectives from the participants.