For those that aren't aware China already owns (controls) Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Burma, Nepal through its people whom for a variety of reasons left the motherland and have become wealthy and powerful in their new home countries. Most of these folks fled the communist regime but are now forming close political and business ties with the mainland because its good business and China now has alot of clout.
I expect the communist have now long realized that their overseas citizenry can outwork, out-think, most others and are quite eager to further expand where allowed.
For more on this read “Lords of the Rim” by Stearling Seagrave
Excellent book! To the victors go the spoils of war...
Lesson learned: Education (rather that the usual socialist indoctrination degree) is VERY important for survival.