Asia, one of the most economically dynamic regions in the world, is getting increasing strategic attention. Global powers, inside or outside the region, are promoting economic, cultural or military schemes of their own, aiming to gain more influence and interests.

In its annual Asia Power Index report, Australian think tank the Lowy Institute found that the U.S. remains the top power in Asia, but the age of its uncontested primacy is over. The report said China is gaining diplomatic influence in the region while ASEAN countries like Indonesia are becoming more active on the Asia stage day by day.

Why is Asia important? What are the respective aims of global powers vying for influence in Asia? Host Liu Kun is joined by Chen Hong, Director of Australian Studies Center at East China Normal University; Einar Tangen, Senior Fellow with the Taihe Institute and Founder of Asia Narratives; and Digby Wren, a visiting scholar at the Royal Academy of Cambodia.