A show of unity from Southeast Asian nations over Beijing’s territorial ambitions in the South China Sea has collapsed after the retraction of a statement expressing “serious concerns” over developments in the contested waters.
The disarray among foreign ministers at the end of a meeting with their Chinese counterpart reflects divisions over Chinese assertiveness in a region containing some of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.
Tensions over the South China Sea have been rising ahead of a ruling by an international court in The Hague on an arbitration case brought by the Philippines against Beijing’s claims. China disputes territory with Vietnam, the Philippines and other Asian nations.
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