ASEAN-US defence and security ties outlook.
The 'Shangri-La Dialogue' held in Singapore between May 29 and 31 evidenced the growing China-US divide over the South China Sea, particularly over China's island-building activities. The frictions will be revisited at the ASEAN Regional Forum, in Malaysia on June 10. Burgeoning tensions in the South China Sea increase pressure on South-east Asian countries, and ASEAN, to maintain equilibrium in relations with China and the United States as individual ASEAN countries pursue their own maritime interests.
The Philippines will seek further US defence support, and develop security ties with Vietnam and Japan.
Singapore will push for a South China Sea code of conduct, but China is unlikely to consent to a binding code.
US Pacific Command leadership will provide some US strategy continuity in the Asia-Pacific region.
