U.S, Russia Join East Asia Summit
Posted on 20. Jul, 2010 by Raven Schneizer in World
The 16 East Asian countries have agreed to allow the United States and Russia to join talks between nations in the region on several issues, including security and the environment, according to Indonesia.
Experts have stated that one reason why the two nations were included in these important dialogs is to “counterbalance” the superiority of China.
“We are in one mind in recognising that the principal modality for the integration or the involvement or engagement of the Russian Federation and the United States in the region is through the EAS expansion,” stated Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa.
The East Asia Summit (EAS) comprises of the 10 nations of the region plus Australia, Japan, South Korea, India, New Zealand, and China.
Diplomats also stated that the presence of the U.S and Russia will help hold off the growing influence of China’s military and economy within the region.
“There must be a counterbalance, otherwise one country will dominate,” a Southeast Asian diplomat told AFP, referring to China.
“ASEAN can play a central role because it is a friend to all the major powers,” the diplomat said.
Trade seems to be the focal point of this year’s talks, as several EAS nations are creating free trade agreements with Australia and New Zealand.
No related posts.