China Raises Concerns Over US Politics in Southeast Asia, ASEAN Seeks Regional Unity
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At the recent ASEAN summit in Jakarta, Chinese Premier Li Qiang expressed growing concerns about the United States' involvement in Southeast Asia, warning of the potential for a "new Cold War" if divisive politics and power plays are allowed to infiltrate multilateral forums.
Li Qiang's remarks come in the wake of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's accusation that external forces were sowing discord within ASEAN, hindering efforts to reach a consensus on matters related to the South China Sea. Wang Yi urged countries not to become pawns in a global power struggle and to prioritize regional unity.
China has also been actively engaging with ASEAN nations to advance discussions on a code of conduct in the disputed South China Sea. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of respecting regional countries' efforts to establish rules that promote peace and stability in the region. The spokesperson noted that the majority of countries at the East Asia Summit are committed to enhancing cooperation through constructive dialogue and friendly consultations, thereby fostering a thriving regional center of growth.
However, China's recent actions in the South China Sea have raised eyebrows and led some ASEAN nations to seek support from the United States. Incidents such as Chinese coast guard vessels using water cannons against Philippine vessels and intimidating Vietnam within its exclusive economic zone have pushed smaller nations to explore closer ties with Washington. Additionally, China's publication of a new map claiming sovereignty over more than 90 percent of the South China Sea has drawn strong objections from countries including India, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
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