China Q&A | How does China maintain stability in its neighborhood?

In this episode of China Q&A, Zhang Yongle, dean of the Institute of Studies on Law and Strategy at Peking University, explains how China approaches peace and stability in its neighborhood—through layered, multi-dimensional cooperation and the provision of shared public goods.

He highlights three main pillars: deeper economic integration through frameworks like RCEP and the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area; security coordination via platforms such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation mechanism; and financial as well as capacity-building support from institutions like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Alongside strong people-to-people and cultural exchanges, these efforts have helped build a sense of shared future with 17 neighboring countries by showing how regional stability can be shaped through cooperation rather than zero-sum thinking.