Eric Teo of the Singapore Institute for International Affairs (SIIA) suggests that China
has a fear of “encirclement” by the US and its allies, which could restrict Beijing’s economic growth and access to vital energy routes.The May-June 2004 controversy between the US and China over the presence of American troops patrolling the Malacca Straits is evidence of this.
To attain stability in its immediate area, ensure economic sustainability and social peace,and prevent the strategic encirclement of China, Beijing has deployed a formidable diplomatic effort to build its own system of allies and friends across the Asia-Pacific.The ACFTA can be seen as part of this effort.
matic