Diplomacy and Discord: Blinken's ASEAN Mission

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is attending the ASEAN summits in Laos to address key issues, including human rights in Myanmar, China's actions in the South China Sea, and Beijing's support for Russia over Ukraine. Amid U.S. presidential politics, Blinken emphasizes continued U.S. engagement with Southeast Asia.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to represent the country at the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summits in Laos, according to sources. A key focus will be human rights in Myanmar, with discussions on China's "irresponsible" practices in the South China Sea and Ukraine also anticipated.

Daniel Kritenbrink, the top U.S. diplomat for East Asia, reinforced President Joe Biden's commitment to the ASEAN region, despite Biden's absence at the event, amid the impending U.S. presidential election. Blinken's itinerary includes visits to Laos, Berlin, and Luanda until mid-October.

With bilateral meetings in Vientiane on the agenda, the State Department anticipates discussions on China's "escalatory" actions in the South China Sea. Concerns over Myanmar's impending elections are also high, with calls for genuine peace and reconciliation before any vote is held, according to Kritenbrink.

(With inputs from agencies.)