ABSTRACT
This chapter examines how each of these frameworks may impact specific relationships; bilateral and multilateral, recognizing that foreign policy can be proactive, reactive, and interactive. Specialists on China emphasized self-images of the Middle Kingdom and a cultural tradition of assertive domination over neighboring peoples. Beijing's 1950 intervention in Korea, 1962 border war with India, clashes with Soviet border troops in 1969, limited invasion of Vietnam in 1979, and seizure of South China Sea Island between 1974 and 1995 add strength to this view. It is reinforced by China's extensive territorial claims at sea that clash with Korea, Japan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei. Meanwhile China increasingly interacts with its East Asian neighbors through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Regional Forum, the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, and recurring bilateral exchanges, from summitry to ministerial and lesser levels. This interaction may gradually reduce concern over potential threats and induce acceptance of the idea of gain through compromise and cooperation.
