U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday urged Southeast Asian countries to help address global challenges during a meeting with his counterparts in Laos. He particularly emphasized the Russian aggression in Ukraine. High-level diplomats from Southeast Asia gathered in the capital of Laos on Saturday for a three-day meeting as countries in this part of Asia have faced tensions over territorial claims in the South China Sea, escalating fighting in Myanmar, and regional rivalries.
Secretary Antony Blinken initially singled out China for its actions against the Philippines in the South China Sea. However, he later commended both countries after Manila successfully completed a new supply mission for its military forces in an area where Beijing also has territorial claims.
“We are pleased with the successful supply mission conducted under an agreement between the Philippines and China. We commend the agreement and hope and expect it to continue,” Secretary Blinken said.
The presence of Filipino forces has angered China for years, which has repeatedly faced off with Filipino forces on a naval ship stationed near the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. Tensions between the two countries have raised regional concerns about escalation.
Saturday’s meetings brought together representatives from the United States, China, Russia, Japan, India, and Australia in the same room to discuss key security issues and other regional matters.
“Our meeting today takes place in a rapidly changing geopolitical and geo-economic environment, presenting both opportunities and challenges. Over the past few years, the East Asia Summit has become a critical platform for dialogue and constructive cooperation on strategic political and economic issues of mutual interest,” said Lao Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, who chaired the proceedings.
Secretary Blinken held a separate meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi as part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings on Saturday in Laos.
A senior U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Secretary Blinken was reported to have raised concerns about Beijing’s recent provocative actions towards Taiwan.
These actions included a simulated blockade during the inauguration of Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, while Blinken and Wang, according to the official, agreed to continue making progress in military ties between the two countries.
Blinken also discussed China’s support for Russia’s defense industry and, according to the same official, he also warned that Washington would take action against Chinese firms aiding the war in Ukraine. The State Department official said there was no commitment from Chinese Minister Wang on this issue.
