US beats China in soft power and popularity in Southeast Asia, giving it regional edge: analysis
- Majority of citizens in 10 countries examined trusted Washington over Beijing, especially in Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam
- China widely seen as major economic power, while the US perceived as providing significant traditional development aid
The United States enjoys greater soft power and popularity in Southeast Asia than China, presenting Washington a distinct advantage as the two giants face off in the strategically vital region, a comprehensive polling analysis released on Tuesday found.
“Washington needs to be more attuned to how individual countries perceive their relations with the United States and China and shape its levers of engagement accordingly,” the 24-page report said.
Growing concerns about Beijing’s behaviour and intentions create diplomatic and economic openings across the region, it added. “And Washington should advance a positive political, security, and economic agenda to meet the moment.”
But the report, titled “Assessing US and Chinese Influence in Southeast Asia”, also noted that soft power was not the only factor at play. It argued that hard power and the ability to deliver concrete benefits also matter, though it did not weigh in on their relative effectiveness.
