ASEAN-China Dialogue Focuses on Beijing’s 15th Five-Year Plan
Beijing hosted a dialogue on Friday aimed at fostering a deeper understanding among ASEAN diplomatic envoys regarding China’s recently concluded Two Sessions and the ambitious goals outlined in its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). The event, organized by the ASEAN-China Centre (ACC), took place at the headquarters of technology giant Xiaomi Corporation.
Key Outcomes and Strategic Priorities
The “Dialogue for a Better Understanding of China” featured presentations from Dr. Xu Liping of the National Institute of International Strategy, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and Dr. Ma Xiaofang from the Department of Economics, National Academy of Governance. Alain Lam, Vice President and CFO of Xiaomi Corporation, too contributed a corporate perspective. Approximately 60 participants, including ambassadors from Brunei, Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand, attended the event, alongside representatives from the Chinese Foreign Ministry and Xiaomi.
Secretary General of the ACC, Shi Zhongjun, emphasized the significance of 2026, noting it marks the beginning of both China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and the first year of implementing the ASEAN-China Plan of Action on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) (2026-2030). He also highlighted the importance of this year’s Two Sessions, particularly the adoption of the 15th Five-Year Plan and the 2026 Government Work Report, which prioritize high-quality development, steady growth, scientific and technological innovation, green development, and improved citizen well-being. China Daily
ASEAN Perspectives and Collaborative Opportunities
Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz of the Philippines, speaking on behalf of the ASEAN ambassadors, expressed gratitude to the ACC for facilitating a better understanding of China’s strategic direction. He noted the resonance of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan priorities – including industrial self-reliance, technological advancement, and economic resilience – within ASEAN member states. China Daily
FlorCruz affirmed ASEAN’s readiness to partner with China in achieving the objectives of the modern five-year plan, particularly as the Philippines holds the 2026 ASEAN chair and marks the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC). He underscored the commitment to upholding the principles of amity and cooperation while navigating global challenges and pursuing shared prosperity. China Daily
Focus on Innovation and Sustainable Development
Presentations by Dr. Xu Liping and Dr. Ma Xiaofang detailed China’s progress in economic development, scientific and technological innovation, and investment, including through the Belt and Road Initiative. They highlighted the 15th Five-Year Plan’s emphasis on continuity, forward-looking vision, and a people-centered approach, focusing on building robust systems for economic development, innovation-driven growth, citizen well-being, green and low-carbon development, and security. China Daily
The plan is anticipated to generate new opportunities in the digital, green, blue, and tourism economies, and to bolster high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. Discussions among ASEAN diplomats and Chinese experts also covered topics such as artificial intelligence, environmental protection, innovation incentives, and collaboration in high-end industrial chains. China Daily
The ACC also hosted a similar dialogue on March 20, 2026, at Xiaomi headquarters, further enhancing ASEAN envoys’ understanding of the key outcomes of China’s 2026 Two Sessions and the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan. 52hrtt.com
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