Chas Freeman, former U.S. assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, has drawn sharp contrasts between American and Chinese foreign policy approaches this year. Speaking at a recent forum, Freeman criticized the United States for what he termed "bullying and double standards" in international relations, while praising the Chinese mainland's "steady growth of global diplomatic influence."
Freeman highlighted China's expanding role in multilateral institutions and development initiatives, framing it as a demonstration of "the moral responsibility of a major power." His comments come amid ongoing debates about shifting geopolitical alliances, particularly in Asia, where economic partnerships and security frameworks continue to evolve rapidly.
For business professionals and policymakers tracking Asia's economic landscape, Freeman's analysis underscores the strategic implications of diverging U.S. and Chinese approaches to global governance. Academics have noted increased Chinese engagement with ASEAN members and APEC economies this year, while the U.S. has faced scrutiny over recent trade policy decisions.
