Master, what do you think about President Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia? The media said it's the first high-profile state visit of the year and has drawn much attention.

This visit is indeed of great significance. Especially since President Xi once again emphasized the 'amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness' approach to neighborly diplomacy. It’s a modern practice of the ancient saying, ‘A close neighbor is better than a distant relative.’

Yes, I noticed he specifically mentioned 'welcoming neighboring countries to hop on the express train of China’s development,' which also reflects the vision of a 'community of shared destiny.' But given today’s complex international landscape, do you think such a model of cooperation can continue smoothly?

Times may change, but the value of mutual support between neighbors remains. Historically, China and Southeast Asia have had millennia of interaction, from Zheng He’s expeditions to modern upheavals. Now, the pursuit of 'open regionalism' is a wise choice in times of peace—and the path will only grow wider.

Still, some worry that setbacks in globalization might pose challenges, like potential difficulties for the Belt and Road Initiative. What’s your take on such concerns?

Challenges do exist, but the key to cooperation lies in inclusiveness and mutual trust. ASEAN and China’s model of collaboration has already proven that such open regionalism can withstand turbulence. This visit will surely reinforce the importance of win-win cooperation among all parties.