ASEAN-China South China Sea

So far, COC talks are marked by little progress and continuing differences. Vietnam has a chance to change that.

While joint activities between regional states are no doubt significant, they need to be kept in perspective relative to broader trends.

As the maritime field training component of the inaugural drills kick off this week, a look at the significance of the engagement.

Though the Philippine president has complicated things, focusing on this episode alone obscures more enduring challenges on the South China Sea question.

The setting up of a high-level body is yet another move to boost their security ties.

ASEAN-China Code of Conduct will languish as long as China sets the pace in the South China Sea.

We need to be clear-eyed about both progress made and the challenges that remain.

With the PCA verdict approaching, the grouping must stand together on the issue in the coming months.

For all the claims of confusion, what happened and what it means is actually already pretty clear.

Though Beijing may have split the grouping again, its tactics failed to accomplish its larger objectives.

While Beijing’s four-point consensus is a notable diplomatic move, its substance is rather hollow.