In a speech delivered at the 57th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Laos, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on Southeast Asian countries to join forces in addressing the "escalating and unlawful actions" of China in the South China Sea. This statement came shortly before Blinken's meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

During his address, Blinken expressed his concern regarding the ongoing civil war in Myanmar, describing it as "heartbreaking." He stressed the importance of collective action among ASEAN member countries to tackle various challenges, including the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, as well as North Korea's missile programs.

While Blinken singled out China for its actions against the Philippines, he acknowledged both nations for their diplomatic efforts following Manila's successful resupply mission to troops in an area also claimed by Beijing. The troop presence in the disputed area has been a source of tension between the two countries for years.

Blinken praised the arrangement reached between China and the Philippines for conducting missions to the Second Thomas Shoal, expressing hope that such cooperation would continue. He further underscored the United States' commitment to achieving a cease-fire in Gaza, emphasizing the need to work towards lasting peace and security in the region.

The remarks made by Blinken align with the sentiments expressed by Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, who stressed the urgency of sustainable peace in Gaza. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong also urged Myanmar's military rulers to abide by ASEAN's five-point consensus peace plan and put an end to the intensifying civil war. The conflict in Myanmar involves the military facing off against ethnic minority rebel groups and an armed resistance movement.

The ASEAN bloc, of which Myanmar is a member, has struggled to make progress in promoting peace talks, as all parties involved have refused to engage in dialogue. Wong highlighted the instability and human suffering caused by the conflict, insisting that it is neither sustainable nor beneficial for Myanmar's people.

With an estimated 2.6 million people displaced by the fighting, international condemnation has been directed at Myanmar's military for its excessive use of force against civilians and alleged atrocities. However, the junta has dismissed these claims as Western disinformation.

After the ASEAN Regional Forum, which focuses on security issues, Blinken is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The forum will bring together top diplomats from major powers, including Russia, Australia, Japan, the European Union, and Britain.

As the tensions in the South China Sea and conflicts in various regions continue, the discussions held among participants at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting and the subsequent talks between Blinken and Wang are expected to play a crucial role in finding diplomatic solutions and promoting stability in the region.