Philippines seeks Asian summit on disputed islands

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines is urging the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to hold a summit of China and five other Asian claimants to disputed South China Sea territories.

West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) AFP FILE PHOTO

Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said Sunday he asked his ASEAN counterparts in Cambodia last week to back the Philippines’ call for the 10-member bloc to organize such a meeting “as soon as possible.” He said Manila is ready to host the meeting.

China has frowned on any resolution involving several countries and wants to negotiate directly with each claimant.

Many fear the disputes could become a flash point for conflict.

Senior Chinese and ASEAN diplomats met in Beijing over the weekend to discuss possible joint projects aimed at building trust among claimants.