Information
Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Australia issued a joint statement expressing concern over actions that could jeopardize peace in the South China Sea. The statement emphasized the benefits of maintaining the South China Sea as a region of peace, stability, and prosperity, urging all countries to avoid unilateral actions that could endanger security and stability. The call for a “rules-based” order in the Indo-Pacific region comes amid recent tensions between China and the Philippines in disputed waters.
Tensions escalated earlier when Chinese vessels in the Spratly Islands were accused of pursuing Philippine ships, leading to collisions and confrontations. The Philippines, a treaty ally of the United States, has called on China to cease aggressive actions. China, in response, pledged to manage differences with concerned countries and implement measures effectively with ASEAN nations. The South China Sea dispute remains a significant security challenge in the region, affecting relations between China, the Philippines, and the U.S.
The ASEAN-Australia joint statement underscores the ongoing concern about China’s increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed worry about unsafe and destabilizing behaviour in the region, emphasizing the need for activities to alleviate tensions rather than exacerbate them. The ASEAN summit, held in Melbourne to mark 50 years of Australia as the bloc’s first external partner, reflects the growing importance of addressing regional security issues, particularly China’s actions in the South China Sea.
Source: AFP, Reuters, DW
Assessment
It is likely that working together in ways such as this is the best way to counter Chinese influence in the South China Sea. While it is unlikely that China will back down in the near future, the support of countries like the Philippines is key in ensuring that China does not take full control. Additionally, it is likely that Australia and the US will be key in this support.
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