Blinken to Tackle Key Issues at ASEAN Summits

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will attend the ASEAN summits in Laos, focusing on human rights in Myanmar, challenges from China in the South China Sea, and the situation in Ukraine. Despite not being present, President Biden remains committed to the ASEAN region's priorities.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to attend the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) summits in Laos this week. Key discussions are expected on human rights abuses in Myanmar, China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea, and developments in Ukraine, confirmed a top U.S. diplomat for East Asia on Tuesday.

Despite President Biden's absence from the leader-level meetings, his administration reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to the ASEAN region. This commitment stands as Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns against former President Donald Trump for the upcoming November 5 U.S. presidential election.

The diplomatic efforts at the ASEAN summits underscore the U.S.'s strategic interests and ongoing dedication to resolving pressing international issues in Southeast Asia.

(With inputs from agencies.)