Philippines’ Teodoro issues ‘wake-up call’ for Asean unity to ‘resist coercion’
Philippine Defence Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jnr has urged Asean members to strengthen unity, warning that division weakens the bloc's ability to address growing regional security challenges. Teodoro emphasized the need for collective resistance against coercion and greater security cooperation, cautioning against external attempts to split the association.
Analysts interpret Teodoro's speech as a "wake-up call," highlighting that internal divisions within Asean, coupled with China's increasing influence and uncertainty surrounding US policies, risk undermining the bloc's capacity to address Beijing's assertive actions, particularly in the South China Sea. This comes as Beijing has been accused of aggressive tactics against Philippine ships asserting its territorial claims in the disputed waters.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
Philippine Defence Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jnr has urged Asean members to strengthen unity, warning that division weakens the bloc's ability to address growing regional security challenges. Teodoro emphasized the need for collective resistance against coercion and greater security cooperation, cautioning against external attempts to split the association.
Analysts interpret Teodoro's speech as a "wake-up call," highlighting that internal divisions within Asean, coupled with China's increasing influence and uncertainty surrounding US policies, risk undermining the bloc's capacity to address Beijing's assertive actions, particularly in the South China Sea. This comes as Beijing has been accused of aggressive tactics against Philippine ships asserting its territorial claims in the disputed waters.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
