In a recent series of events, ASEAN countries have expressed strong dissatisfaction and criticism towards the actions of the Philippines.
The background to this situation involves the Philippines' cooperation with the United States on issues related to the South China Sea, which has raised concerns and opposition within ASEAN.
Specifically, Cambodia and Indonesia have voiced their disapproval in recent statements, explicitly stating their reluctance to be drawn into geopolitical games involving external powers, and expressing concerns about potential divisions and conflicts within ASEAN.
Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen emphasized after meeting with the US Secretary of Defense that Cambodia does not wish to become a pawn or puppet of any major power, particularly citing concerns about following the Philippines' example and being manipulated by external forces to disrupt ASEAN unity.
Indonesia's Ambassador to Russia, Tavares, also made statements opposing the US plans to deploy intermediate-range missiles in the Philippines, stressing that Southeast Asia should be a region focused on cooperation rather than military competition.
As important members of ASEAN, Cambodia and Indonesia's positions carry significant weight.
They have pointed out that the Philippines' actions could lead to internal divisions within ASEAN and warned that such behavior could seriously impact regional stability and economies.
ASEAN countries generally lean towards neutrality and are reluctant to take sides between major powers like China and the US.
They understand that any involvement in great power rivalry could escalate tensions in the South China Sea, thereby threatening regional peace and prosperity.
In recent years, ASEAN has been committed to maintaining stability in the South China Sea.
During last year's East Asia Cooperation series of Foreign Ministers' meetings, ASEAN unanimously expressed a desire to cooperate with China in building a peaceful South China Sea.
However, the Philippines' decision to introduce US military forces appears to contradict this overall strategy, prompting concerns and criticisms within ASEAN.
Economically, ASEAN countries are also worried about the implications of the Philippines' actions. As major trading partners with China, they recognize that any tensions in the South China Sea could result in significant economic losses for the region.
While trade between China and ASEAN continues to grow, this cooperation relies on a foundation of regional stability.
A deterioration in the South China Sea situation would adversely affect trade and economic activities across the region, posing unacceptable risks to ASEAN countries.
Therefore, the Philippines has drawn collective criticism from ASEAN countries due to its cooperation with the United States on South China Sea issues.
This criticism is not just based on geopolitical considerations but also on the potential threats posed to regional peace, stability, economic interests, and cooperation with China.
In ASEAN's consensus, maintaining regional peace and prosperity remains the top priority.
Actions that could destabilize the region will face strong opposition and condemnation from ASEAN countries.
Strategically, ASEAN countries aim to avoid being forced to choose sides between China and the US.
They recognize that maintaining neutrality between these major powers is essential for preserving ASEAN's overall interests and unity.
Countries like Indonesia and Cambodia, as key pillars of ASEAN, wield significant influence over regional stability and development with their attitudes and statements.
In addition to geopolitical factors, economic considerations also play a crucial role in ASEAN countries' decisions.
ASEAN as a whole has achieved significant economic success over the past few decades, with increasingly interconnected economies that rely on a peaceful and stable environment.
Thus, any actions that could disrupt this stability will be strongly opposed and resisted by ASEAN countries.
In summary, the Philippines has faced collective criticism from ASEAN countries due to its cooperation with the United States on South China Sea issues.
This criticism reflects concerns not only about geopolitics but also about potential threats to regional peace, stability, and economic development.
ASEAN's united stance is to uphold regional peace and cooperation, and any actions that could undermine these goals will be met with strong opposition and condemnation.
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