“China followed its own path in introducing a market economy”. Justify this statement with four suitable arguments?

OR

How far is it correct to describe ASEAN as an alternative Centre of power in the world?

China followed its own path in introducing a market economy. The four arguments to support this statement are:

China did not opt for shock therapy but instead decided to open up its economy in a pre-decided manner.

In 1982, the Chinese economy faced the privatization of agriculture and the privatization of industry in 1988.

Trade barriers were eliminated only in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), where foreign companies could set up.

The state continued to play the central role in setting up a market economy.

OR

ASEAN or The Association of Southeast Asian Nations is a regional association to provide a political forum to discuss political and security issues. Its headquarters is in Indonesia. It is correct to describe ASEAN as an alternative centre of power in the world through the following points:

Although the economy of ASEAN is smaller as compared to the US and European Union, its economy is much faster than all of the others. It has a stronger influence both within its region as well as others.

It has focused on the setting up of a Free trade zone for investment, labour and services.

The vision 2020 of ASEAN has defined a very important role among the regional organizations.

In terms of trading and investment, it is a relevant economy with partners like China and India. This makes it an attractive partner.