Meaning: This quote by Sellapan Ramanathan, a prominent Singaporean statesman, reflects the interconnectedness and interdependence of Southeast Asia and China in the context of economic progress and multinational corporations. The quote underscores the significance of regional cooperation and mutual benefit, emphasizing the importance of Southeast Asia's development to China and vice versa.

In this quote, Ramanathan acknowledges the emergence of multinational corporations originating from Southeast Asia, indicating the region's growing economic influence and potential. The reference to "slowly developing some multinationals of your own" suggests that the region is gradually establishing its own multinational companies, signaling a shift in the global economic landscape and the increasing competitiveness of Southeast Asian businesses on the international stage.

Furthermore, Ramanathan expresses the hope that these emerging multinational corporations from Southeast Asia will consider looking towards China for opportunities. This reflects a recognition of China's role as a major economic powerhouse and a lucrative market for business expansion. It also highlights the potential for collaboration and investment between Southeast Asia and China, as well as the mutual benefits that such partnerships could yield.

The statement "the progress of Southeast Asia is important to China, just as China's progress is important to us" encapsulates the idea of mutual dependence and shared interests between the two regions. It emphasizes that the advancement of Southeast Asia is not only beneficial to the countries within the region but also holds significance for China. Likewise, China's progress is seen as consequential for Southeast Asia, indicating a symbiotic relationship where the prosperity of one region has implications for the other.

This sentiment underscores the interconnected nature of the global economy and the importance of regional cooperation in driving economic growth and development. It acknowledges the potential for mutual support and collaboration between Southeast Asia and China, as well as the recognition of the impact that each region's progress can have on the other.

From an economic perspective, this quote highlights the potential for cross-border investments, trade partnerships, and business collaborations between Southeast Asia and China. It promotes the idea of leveraging each other's strengths and resources for mutual benefit, fostering a conducive environment for economic cooperation and shared prosperity.

In conclusion, Sellapan Ramanathan's quote underscores the growing significance of Southeast Asia's economic development and the region's potential to contribute to the global economy through the emergence of its own multinational corporations. It also emphasizes the interdependence between Southeast Asia and China, promoting the idea of mutual progress and cooperation for the benefit of both regions. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of regional collaboration and the potential for shared economic growth in an increasingly interconnected world.