The late U.S. scholar Joseph Nye, who coined the term "soft power," has repeatedly warned that U.S. President Donald Trump's actions are damaging America's reputation overseas. Meanwhile, perceptions of China and other Asian countries are improving. Does this signal a shift towards what is called the "Asian Century"?

More than a third of Southeast Asia's population was born in the 21st century. None of them personally experienced the 1997 Asian financial crisis. Fewer have witnessed the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the subsequent "war on terror," and not many remember the 2008 global financial crisis.

However, most of them have been directly affected by the pandemic. Some are now entering the workforce and have the ability to travel abroad. Many Southeast Asians purchase all kinds of foreign content and products online and offline.

What does the world look like through their eyes? Geopolitical rivalries are resurging, and globalization is no longer taken for granted. At the same time, localism may be stronger than ever before, especially under former U.S. President Donald Trump's "America First" policy.

China is leading efforts to influence socioeconomic and political development in Southeast Asia and beyond. Part of the reason lies in the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China, which plays a crucial role in expanding its influence in various fields. This initiative covers physical and digital infrastructure, including roads, railways, bridges, and the technological foundation that enables future connectivity, powering smart cities.

The modern railways built by China are already benefiting the people and tourists of countries like Laos and Indonesia. Other Southeast Asian nations such as Thailand and Vietnam are expected to follow suit soon. In Bangkok, China-made monorail trains have made commuting more convenient for residents.

Meanwhile, affordable and reliable Chinese electric vehicles are increasingly attracting potential buyers in the region. BYD is just one of many emerging manufacturers in this field. Chinese tech companies are competing with American and South Korean brands, and in some cases, they even appear more futuristic than their rivals.

Chinese tourists, students, and entrepreneurs are spread across Southeast Asian countries, further boosting the local economy due to their demand for regional cuisine. This can be seen from the rising popularity of hot pot restaurants in fashion districts of capital cities and other urban areas. Chinese short videos and video games are also gaining popularity.

These developments—just a few examples among many—have prompted some international media outlets to wonder: Is China becoming the "new trendsetter"? This is particularly thought-provoking, as less than a decade ago, the Foreign Policy magazine published an article titled "Why Is China So... Uncool?" In just a few years, the situation has changed significantly.

What does the Asian Century look like in the eyes of young people in Southeast Asia? Today, they seem to find more opportunities and exciting things within their own region without having to go far away.

This reflects the gradual decline of Western influence in political and social-cultural terms. Every country has its uniqueness and deserves to be heard. Despite challenges and the time it takes to make progress, many signs indicate that Asia is truly rising. (Translated by Yang Xuelai)

This article was originally published on the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post website on June 7th, with the original title "Asia Finally Becomes Cool in the Eyes of Young People." The author is Daniele Carmignati.

On May 30th, representatives from the United Nations exchanged views with train attendants aboard a K12 train carriage of the China-Laos Railway. Representatives from nearly 20 UN agencies based in Laos, including the UN Development Programme and the International Labour Organization, visited the China-Laos Railway to learn firsthand about its achievements in promoting regional connectivity, improving people's livelihoods, and achieving sustainable development. They also discussed future cooperation opportunities. (Xinhua News Agency)

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7513949252797628966/

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