China tensions top ASEAN summit talks in Myanmar
Source: AP-Excite
By ESTHER HTUSAN
NAYPYIDAW, Myanmar (AP) — Vietnam and the Philippines on Sunday pushed for stronger action to confront China's aggressive behavior in the South China Sea at the first regional summit hosted by Myanmar, which was hoping to demonstrate the progress it's made since emerging from a half-century of military rule.
A showdown between Chinese and Vietnamese ships near the Paracel Islands has put a spotlight on long-standing and bitter maritime disputes. The stakes are high, with Beijing claiming sovereignty over much of the strategically important waters, which are among the world's busiest transport lanes and believed to contain significant oil and gas reserves.
Several members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations reject China's claims, saying parts of the sea are theirs. But few are willing to risk their political and economic relationship with the regional powerhouse.
A draft of the closing statement from the summit, obtained by The Associated Press, made no direct mention of China, and ASEAN foreign ministers who gathered Saturday did little beyond expressing concern and calling for self-restraint.
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Leaders and their spouses of Southeast Asian Nations, from left Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, his spouse Ho Ching, spouse of Myanmar President Khin Khin Win, Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and his spouse Kristiani Herawati walk after posing for a group picture during 24th ASEAN Summit in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, Saturday, May 10 2014. (AP Photo/Gemunu Amarasinghe)
