ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and China: Grand Vision or Disillusion?

Abstract

In light of the heightened attention on the Indo-Pacific in recent years, this article examines the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and geopolitical developments in the region, and considers the question of whether the Outlook is a forward-looking proposal or an overly idealistic proposal that has limited potential for success. The AOIP is unique in the sense that ASEAN did not have a statement that is concerned with developments in the Indo-Pacific before the Outlook came along. Noting the described context, this article looks into the AOIP in six parts. Part one observes the development of IPS and considers whether the AOIP is ASEAN’s unique Indo-Pacific response. Part two highlights the main points of the AOIP. Part three turns to observe the AOIP’s strategic vision and some challenges that the Outlook may confront. Part four considers the China factor and the opportunities and challenges that Beijing brings. Part five looks at the alignment between the AOIP and IPS and the security implications of such alignment. This article concludes with some thoughts on the prospects of the AOIP.