Final answer:
ASEAN is concerned about Turkey's economic rise as a manufacturing center attracting foreign direct investment, potentially challenging ASEAN nations' efforts to grow their economies and increase local living standards.
Step-by-step explanation:
The economic concern within ASEAN regarding the ascendancy of Turkey is primarily due to Turkey's emergence as a low-cost manufacturing hub, which has been attracting significant amounts of foreign direct investment (FDI). This scenario might pose a competitive threat to the Southeast Asian nations that are also seeking to attract FDI to develop their own economies and improve the standard of living of their populations.
ASEAN countries have a history of economic integration and collaboration, aiming to leverage their geographical positions and resources to foster regional development. Nations like Japan have set global production standards in manufacturing and are looking to Southeast Asian countries, including China, for manufacturing opportunities due to Japan's shortage of inexpensive labor. However, Turkey's appeal as a manufacturing center is now drawing the attention of investors that might have otherwise invested in the ASEAN region.
The economic development of ASEAN countries is intricately linked to their ability to compete in the global market. Historical instances such as the rise of the East Asian Tigers, which includes territories like Hong Kong and Taiwan, as well as countries like South Korea and Singapore, demonstrate the potential for rapid and sustained economic growth through export-led industrialization. Countries like Thailand and the Philippines are developing their infrastructure and economic policies to attract FDI, a goal that might be challenged by Turkey's economic strides.
All this is set against the backdrop of the changing economic power dynamics. The traditional colonial powers may have lost their political grip but continue to economically influence the region through corporate colonialism. ASEAN nations must thus navigate these complexities while pursuing growth and improving the living standards for their people.