In a fascinating revelation by the Pew Research Center, Thailand has emerged with the highest favorability ratings toward China compared to other surveyed middle-income nations. This report, published amidst NGOs discussing the geopolitical tension in notable regions, underscores a significant divide in global perceptions about China and its influence.

 

The survey highlighted contrasting views based predominantly on economic lines, with middle-income countries generally viewing China more positively than their high-income counterparts. This disparity is stark, especially among neighboring nations in the Indo-Pacific region. For instance, high-income countries such as Japan and Australia have shown considerable skepticism towards China, largely due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.

 

In contrast, Thailand's perspective is remarkably different, with 80% of respondents viewing China in a favorable light. This positive attitude extends to Chinese President Xi Jinping, whom a significant portion of Thai respondents trust regarding global affairs. This trust contrasts sharply with the skepticism observed in countries like Japan and Australia, reflecting varied regional dynamics and historical relationships with China.

 

Moreover, the survey delves into concerns over China's territorial ambitions, particularly in strategic areas such as the South China Sea. While countries like the Philippines exhibit high levels of apprehension, Thailand's concern remains relatively subdued, which may contribute to its favorable view of China.

 

This report comes at a time when global alliances and partnerships are increasingly influenced by economic interests and security concerns. It offers a nuanced look at how different regions perceive China, highlighting the complexities of international relations in today’s multipolar world. These insights are crucial as countries navigate their diplomatic and economic paths in an interconnected global landscape.

 

Picture courtesy: Wikimedia

 

-- 2024-07-11

 

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A 'fascinating revelation' ? That's one way of putting it. Yet China is irrefutably a bad actor, both to it's own people and to many other Countries.

 

Thailand seems to have a history of encouragement and tolerance of awful regimes. On top of the news that China is apparently conducting military exercises with Belarus, negotiations continue to purchase a military submarine. That's even as the Chinese EV industry continues to undermine Thailand's previously thriving car CKD/manufacturing, (now Honda packing their bags at Ayutthaya) it seems that the Thai Govt have full connivance with this demise, seemingly terrified to impose overdue tariffs on EV imports.

 

Meanwhile, Mr DIY, CJ Stores and the like, flood Thailand with cheap wares jeopardising countless thousands of established Thai businesses. Chinese tourists are frantically courted as tourist spots bulge.

 

Thailand needs to take care who it chooses as bedfellows in international matters. Lying down for every baht will not have a good outcome . . . . .

 

 

Russia must be 2nd then, followed by Burma.

Thailand and China have a very long entwined history... this is not surprising

Bow to the Emperor, (Xi)! 

Thailand the forgotten Chinese province...