Recent developments in the South China Sea are once again in the spotlight of international attention, especially as Philippines** Marcos attempts to join forces with Japan at a special ASEAN-Japan summit to counter China's influence in the region. However, this strategy has not been as effective as expected, mainly because ASEAN countries adhere to an independent and neutral stance and do not want to be drawn into the geopolitical game between China, Japan and the Philippines.
Marcos's actions have focused on trying to persuade ASEAN countries to unite against China's so-called "threats" in the South China Sea. But he seems to have overlooked a key point: ASEAN countries do not want to be part of the geopolitical competition between the great powers. At the 21st meeting of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, ASEAN countries have made it clear that they want to resolve disputes in the South China Sea through peaceful means and do not want to conflict with China, which makes Marcos's remarks not resonate among ASEAN countries.
On the other hand, Japan is also actively participating in this geopolitical game, trying to attract ASEAN countries by providing economic aid and military support. However, this approach is seen by ASEAN countries as part of the struggle between the great powers, who prefer to maintain their independence rather than become pawns in any great power confrontation.
China's position on the South China Sea issue has always been to resolve disputes through peaceful negotiations and to oppose any form of militarization. China's position has been endorsed by the majority of ASEAN countries. On the issue of Second Thomas Shoal, China's military and militia forces exist to safeguard its sovereignty and security, not to provoke conflict.
This is reflected in the change in attitude of the Chinese ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian. His initial hardline stance softened without ASEAN's support, and he expressed his willingness to resolve the South China Sea issue at the negotiating table.
The independent stance of ASEAN countries on the South China Sea issue is crucial to maintaining regional stability and peace. They do not want to fall prey to the political game of great powers, and prefer to settle disputes through peaceful means. This has also been reflected in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where many ASEAN countries have refused to impose sanctions on Russia despite pressure from the West, demonstrating their independent foreign policy in international affairs.
Against this international backdrop, it is clear that the plans of the Philippines and Japan have not worked. Marcos's change of attitude shows that he realizes that the Philippines will struggle to get ASEAN's support in the South China Sea. At the same time, China's steady actions and ongoing diplomatic efforts in the South China Sea also provide a viable way to resolve disputes.
The resolution of the South China Sea issue requires the joint efforts of all parties, especially the independent and neutral position of ASEAN countries, which is crucial to maintaining regional peace and stability. The delicate game between China, Japan, and the Philippines, while part of the South China Sea dispute, ultimately lies in finding common ground through peaceful negotiations and international law.
For ASEAN countries, maintaining independence and balancing relations between major countries is the best choice to safeguard their own interests and regional stability.
On the South China Sea issue, the Philippines and Japan's attempts at cooperation have been positive, but their practical results have been limited. The independence and neutrality of ASEAN countries have effectively resisted the risk of being drawn into the political game of major powers. This independence not only protects its own interests, but also promotes regional stability.
As for China, it has always advocated a peaceful solution to the South China Sea issue and opposes militarized actions, a position that has been widely recognized by ASEAN countries. China's actions in the South China Sea are aimed at safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests, while also demonstrating its willingness to resolve disputes peacefully.
In general, the fundamental settlement of the South China Sea issue depends on the joint efforts and dialogue of all parties. The independent stance of ASEAN countries not only helps to avoid regional conflicts, but also provides a solid basis for the search for a peaceful solution to the South China Sea issue. Against this backdrop, China, Japan, and the Philippines need to seek cooperation and consensus through peaceful negotiations, rather than unilateral actions or confrontation.