(Phnom Penh): We live in a bipolar world led by two economic superpowers: the US and China, whose combined economies rival all others combined. As during the Cold War, countries often navigate between the two, balancing ties for strategic benefit.

Indonesia (72%) and Malaysia (71%) prefer China, likely due to deep economic links and participation in the Belt and Road Initiative. In contrast, Vietnam (74%) and the Philippines (86%) favour the US, driven by territorial tensions in the South China Sea.

These differences reflect each country's unique geopolitical priorities. Vietnam and the Philippines, facing China’s maritime assertiveness, have leaned on the US for security support. The Philippines even hosts multiple US military bases that signalling strategic trust, despite domestic control over the facilities.

This article was originally published on Voronoiapp.
=FRESH NEWS