Diplomatic gains in Southeast Asia

The successive visits of President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang to Southeast Asian countries reflect a new aspect of Chinese diplomacy, a diplomacy that is proficient in deriving long-term gains, says a commentary in People's Daily. Excerpts:

Over the past two weeks, China has played at least four good diplomatic cards in Southeast Asia: connectivity, bright economic prospects, maritime cooperation and closer relationship. After decades of fast-paced economic development, China has more resources and power, and exercises greater influence in the world. Despite that, it manages its relations with other countries, especially with neighbors, in a friendly way.