ABSTRACT
In the early post-Cold War period, Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) pursued an active diplomatic agenda. It supported the concept of an Asia-Pacific community premised on US strategic, political and economic engagement, and on recognition of China as a major power, with attendant rights and responsibilities. ASEAN played a leading procedural role in the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), endorsed APEC and initiated ASEM. Beijing welcomed the prospect of ASEAN-10, stating that it would, as then Foreign Minister Qian put it, is 'more closely connected to China'. China's claims in the South China Sea made it the only major power to pose a direct challenge to the territorial interests of South-east Asian countries, and ASEAN expected to emerge from enlargement better able to command the attention and respect of its massive neighbour. While supporting US strategic, political and economic engagement in Asia, ASEAN has seen itself as a potential kingmaker, prodding Japan towards political and economic leadership.
