US and ASEAN Press China on South China Sea Tensions

Amid escalating confrontations, US Secretary of State Blinken and ASEAN leaders urge China to respect international laws in disputed waters.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concerns over China's 'dangerous and unlawful' activities in the South China Sea during an ASEAN summit.
Recent clashes between Chinese and ASEAN member vessels have heightened tensions, with the Philippines and Vietnam reporting incidents of harassment.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang blamed 'external forces' for regional instability, while asserting China's right to protect its territorial claims.
ASEAN leaders, including Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., called for urgent progress on a code of conduct to manage disputes in the South China Sea.
China remains ASEAN's top trading partner, complicating diplomatic efforts to address maritime disputes without affecting economic relations.