South China Sea tensions, security issues bring ASEAN, G7 closer

Taipei/Taiwan – The G7 nations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries have been increasing cooperation and drumming up international support on the South China Sea.

This is due to the tension in the sea and the security concerns over military buildup which prompted the two blocs to intensify meetings to address the issue.

In a recent meeting between the two blocs, the G7 nations have declared a “shared interest in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region.”

The G7 and the ASEAN bloc discussed the situation in the South China Sea and concerns were expressed on the land reclamations, activities, and serious incidents in the area, including damage to the marine environment.

It has eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions, and may undermine peace, security, and stability in the region.

Dr. Sana Hashmi, a specialist on international relations, voiced doubts the meeting and efforts would yield any results.

Hashmi said that the Southeast Asia countries are in the process of signing a memo with China on the issue of the South China Sea; however, it will not be binding, which brings to the fore the question of how useful it will be.

She said the code of conduct should nevertheless be signed because it will have implications for the South China Sea.

Dr. Alan Yang, a political analyst, said some Asian countries are influenced by China and pressured by trade ties with Beijing, adding that those countries would feel as if they have to jeopardize their territorial rights and sovereignty to keep the trade cooperation intact.