China–ASEAN Youth Dialogue Explores Regional Perspectives Amid Global Turbulence

On 6 June 2026, Foreign Policy Talks, in collaboration with Young China Watchers Hong Kong, held the inaugural China–ASEAN Youth Dialogue, bringing together emerging researchers, policy practitioners, and young professionals from across Asia to examine how growing global uncertainty is shaping the future of China–ASEAN relations.

Held under the theme *“How Global Turbulence Impacts China–ASEAN Relations,”* the dialogue was conceived as a platform for substantive exchanges on the strategic, economic, and societal challenges facing the region. The program also featured a scene setting address by Brian Wong, Assistant Professor in Philosophy at the University of Hong Kong, providing broader context for the discussions that followed. Participants also drew on insights from the Southeast Asia Survey 2026 to reflect on evolving regional perceptions toward China and the United States, and what these shifts may mean for ASEAN’s external relations in an increasingly contested geopolitical environment.

The dialogue was organised around four key themes: great power competition and the changing balance of power in Asia; the evolution of regional trade and economic integration; energy security, climate resilience, and sustainable development; and the growing influence of technology on public opinion and governance. Together, these discussions underscored the extent to which strategic, economic, environmental, and technological developments are becoming increasingly intertwined across the region.

Participants represented a diverse range of institutions, including universities, research centres, international organisations, and private sector entities from across Southeast Asia, China, and Hong Kong. The exchange of perspectives across different national and professional backgrounds provided valuable opportunities to better understand both shared concerns and differing outlooks on the future of China–ASEAN relations.

As China and ASEAN navigate a period of profound geopolitical and economic change, sustained dialogue among the next generation of analysts and practitioners will become increasingly important. The inaugural China–ASEAN Youth Dialogue reflects a shared commitment to fostering cross regional understanding, strengthening professional networks, and encouraging thoughtful engagement on issues that will continue to shape China–ASEAN relations and the broader regional landscape in the years ahead.

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