During the annual summit meeting with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the U.S. Secretary of State raised concerns about China's activities in the disputed South China Sea. The U.S. emphasized the importance of upholding freedom of navigation in the vital sea trade route, which sees about a third of global trade passing through it.
China's expansive claims in the South China Sea have led to tensions with ASEAN members Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. Recent confrontations between China and Philippines, as well as Vietnam, have raised fears of potential conflict escalation.
The U.S. reiterated its support for freedom of navigation in the Indo Pacific and has deployed navy ships and fighter jets to challenge China's claims in the region. However, China has blamed external military presences, including the U.S., for instability in the South China Sea.
ASEAN countries have been cautious in addressing the sea dispute with China, given its economic ties with the bloc. Efforts to negotiate a code of conduct for the South China Sea have faced challenges, including disagreements over its binding nature.
Aside from the South China Sea issue, discussions at the summit also touched on other shared challenges, including the civil war in Myanmar, North Korea's behavior, and the conflict in Ukraine. The Middle East crisis, particularly the situation in Gaza and Lebanon, was also a topic of concern.
The U.N. Secretary-General highlighted the urgent need for a political solution to the conflicts in the Middle East and Myanmar. He called for the protection of peacekeepers and civilians in conflict zones and emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid reaching those in need.
