US Secretary of State Antony Blinken strongly criticized China’s actions in the South China Sea during a meeting with ASEAN leaders in Laos. China has been increasing its military presence in the region, particularly aimed at ejecting the Philippines from strategically important islands and reefs. Additionally, China has been escalating tensions with Japan over a disputed island group in the East China Sea, alarming Tokyo and its allies.
Blinken expressed concerns about China’s “increasingly dangerous and unlawful actions” in the South and East China Seas, which have resulted in injuries to people and damage to vessels from ASEAN nations. He emphasized the US commitment to supporting freedom of navigation and overflight in the Indo-Pacific region. The United States also expressed a desire to collaborate with ASEAN leaders to ensure stability across the Taiwan Strait, which has been a longstanding source of tension with China.
The comments by Blinken come on the heels of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s declaration to resist annexation by China, which claims sovereignty over the self-governing democracy. Beijing has criticized Taiwan for its provocative remarks, further intensifying the already strained relations between the two sides.
The meeting between Blinken and ASEAN leaders in Vientiane highlighted the importance of addressing China’s aggressive actions in the region while promoting peace and stability. The US reiterated its commitment to upholding international maritime laws and norms, particularly in the face of China’s provocative behavior in the South China Sea.
The escalating tensions between China and its neighbors, as well as with the United States, have raised concerns about the potential for conflict in the region. The US, along with ASEAN countries, is working to ensure that disputes are resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law, despite China’s attempts to assert its dominance in the South China Sea.
As China continues to flex its military and economic influence in the region, the United States remains committed to working with ASEAN partners to counter Chinese aggression and uphold a rules-based international order. The meeting in Laos served as a platform for discussions on regional security issues and ways to promote peace and stability in the face of growing tensions with Beijing.
