MANILA, Philippines — Southeast Asian leaders are preparing to discuss regional security and international conflicts at the annual ASEAN summit, with US President Donald Trump expected to join the final discussions during his visit to the Philippines.
The three-day summit is scheduled to begin Sunday in Manila. Leaders are expected to address disputes in the South China Sea, Myanmar's ongoing civil conflict and the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
The meeting comes as the United States seeks to maintain its diplomatic and strategic influence in a region where China's economic and military presence continues to shape regional relations.
South China Sea tensions remain a priority
One of the central issues is the South China Sea, where territorial disputes and competing maritime claims have raised concerns among regional governments.
Draft summit statements are expected to reaffirm international law, freedom of navigation and overflight, and peaceful dispute resolution. Negotiations on a regional code of conduct are continuing, although a final agreement is not expected this year.
These developments matter to Washington because the United States has repeatedly emphasized freedom of navigation and security cooperation with partners in the Indo-Pacific.
Myanmar and wider international conflicts
Myanmar's civil conflict is also expected to feature prominently. ASEAN has continued to exclude the country's military leadership from high-level meetings because of its failure to implement the bloc's peace plan.
Draft statements are expected to call for an end to violence, humanitarian access, inclusive political dialogue and the release of detainees.
Leaders are also expected to discuss the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, reflecting the wider international security concerns facing the region.
Trump's participation raises the diplomatic stakes
Trump is expected to arrive in Manila on Tuesday for meetings with ASEAN leaders and the Quad. His participation will give the United States an opportunity to discuss regional security, trade and cooperation with Southeast Asian governments.
China's Premier Li Qiang is also expected to meet ASEAN leaders before Trump's arrival, highlighting the importance of the region to both Washington and Beijing.
Why Americans should watch
Southeast Asia is strategically important to the United States because of its location along major shipping routes, its role in global manufacturing and its position in the wider competition between Washington and Beijing.
Developments in the South China Sea could affect international commerce, supply chains and the security commitments of US regional partners.
Sources and further reporting
