On October 11, 2024, during the US-ASEAN summit in Laos, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed serious concerns regarding China's "increasingly dangerous and unlawful" activities in the South China Sea. He emphasized that these actions have harmed vessels from ASEAN nations and violate commitments to peaceful dispute resolutions.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted ongoing harassment from China, urging for a more urgent approach in ASEAN-China negotiations regarding a code of conduct for the contested waters. The South China Sea is crucial for global trade and is claimed almost entirely by China, despite overlapping claims from several ASEAN members including the Philippines and Vietnam.
In response to rising tensions, Blinken also addressed the situation regarding Taiwan, urging China to avoid provocative actions following a speech by Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, who asserted Taiwan's sovereignty. Blinken reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region for global economic stability.
Additionally, the summit marked the first attendance of a representative from Myanmar's junta in over three years, signaling a potential shift in regional diplomatic engagement.