[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] U.S. President Joe Biden has embarked on a diplomatic campaign to curb China's expanding influence in Southeast Asia, according to reports by the Associated Press and others on the 12th (local time).
According to the reports, President Biden announced at the ASEAN summit held in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, that he would elevate the bilateral relationship to a "comprehensive strategic partnership." He also stated, "ASEAN is at the heart of the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy," adding, "We will continue to strengthen our role."
Furthermore, President Biden emphasized, "The United States and ASEAN must jointly address current issues such as promoting freedom, stability, prosperity, and security in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as threats like climate change and challenges to the rule of law," explaining that he would cooperate with ASEAN to resolve territorial disputes in the South China Sea and the bloody situation in Myanmar.
Before meeting with ASEAN leaders, President Biden expressed gratitude to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen for condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
He also expressed concern over the ongoing bloodshed in Myanmar following the military coup and expressed hope for the restoration of democracy.
Cambodia voted in favor of the United Nations resolution condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine. On the 9th, Prime Minister Hun Sen met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in Phnom Penh. On the same day, Hun Sen criticized Russia on Facebook, stating, "Cambodia opposes aggression, threats, and the use of violence against the sovereignty and territory of independent countries."
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