Over the past three years, Southeast Asia has witnessed a series of important leadership transitions. How will these new leaders approach China and how will they differ from their predecessors?

Indonesia’s foreign policy will not fundamentally change except in one respect—it will have a more active president managing its foreign policy.

One reason Pacific Island countries continue to borrow from China is their huge demand for infrastructure.

In recent years, Beijing has emerged as a key economic and security player for Pacific island nations. At the same time, Pacific island states face a multitude of challenges, from the impact of climate change to rising great power competition.

Engaging with China and with the United States are not zero-sum choices for Southeast Asia, but the challenge for the region’s leaders and diplomats is actually about keeping the United States interested in the region.

China’s role in the Mekong region demonstrates that development cooperation often requires closer security cooperation.