With President Xi Jinping potentially staying in power longer, China’s influence in South-east Asia and the rest of Asia is set to expand, say analysts.

In the next 10 to 20 years, the region could see a stronger and more assertive China that seeks to play a bigger role in political, economic, security and cultural affairs as a regional leader, they say.

Since coming to power in 2013, Mr Xi has advocated a brand of foreign policy different from those practised by his predecessors, said Associate Professor Li Mingjiang of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.

“He places high emphasis on China’s international status, and he seeks a rejuvenation of the great Chinese nation. In this regard, China will get increasingly assertive in extending its influence in the region,” said Prof Li.

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