Historical Changes in Relations Between China and Neighboring Countries (1949–2012)

The concept of the ‘neighborhood’ (zhoubian) has a prominent place in China’s thinking about its foreign policy, as good relations with neighboring countries have great significance for China’s development. There have been three distinct phases in China’s relations with neighboring countries since the foundation of the People’s Republic of China, in each of which the Chinese leadership has proposed different diplomatic policies towards neighboring countries, according to the domestic and international situations. However, with the present rapid economic development of China, there have been some noticeable changes that will present challenges to China’s dealings with neighboring countries. This presentation will provide perspectives on these questions.