A move by Russia and China to block an Asean-led statement at the summit reflects a 'battleground between two blocs', one analyst says Russia and China's coordinated move to block a statement drafted by Southeast Asian countries for the East Asia Summit (EAS) is stoking concerns about the growing risks of Asean's ability to remain neutral over

He said that support from Asean’s partners to confront regional challenges was essential. Read more at straitstimes.com.

VIENTIANE: Singapore has called on Asean’s key partners, including the United States and China, to use their leverage over the Myanmar authorities to stop the ongoing violence in the country, and to pave the way for humanitarian aid and national reconciliation.