US President Joe Biden and ASEAN leaders wrapped up a two-day summit in Washington on Friday.
Biden said that the US and ASEAN are embarking on a new era in their relations. He also said the two sides will continue to elevate their partnership and strengthen their cooperation.
A joint statement issued after the summit says that the US and ASEAN have committed to establishing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership at a summit scheduled for November.
ASEAN has already established a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” with China.
There is a view among ASEAN members that the US involvement in the region has been insufficient.
The Biden administration is apparently aiming to strengthen its ties with the association in a bid to counter China’s growing influence in Southeast Asia.
With regard to Ukraine, the statement says, without mentioning Russia, that the sides continue to reaffirm their respect for sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity.
According to www3.nhk.or.jp. Source of photo: internet
