US, Japan, Philippines Boost Cooperation in China Sea Amid Tensions with China

Experts call for increased trust-building and cooperation between China and ASEAN countries, as the US and its allies prepare for military drills expected to provoke Beijing.

• Experts at the Boao Forum for Asia emphasize the need for China to build trust with ASEAN countries to ease tensions in the South China Sea.
• US, Japan, and the Philippines plan trilateral naval patrols in the South China Sea, signaling increased cooperation against China's assertiveness.
• The upcoming US-Philippine military drills in the South China Sea are expected to provoke Beijing, but Philippine officials assert their right to defend their territory.
• China's actions, including using water cannons against Philippine vessels, have raised concerns over potential unintended consequences in the region.
• China and ASEAN countries are encouraged to focus on cooperation in less sensitive areas, such as environmental protection and scientific research.

3 Articles

South China Morning Post South China Morning Post Voice of America (VOA News)