Article Abstract:
The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) finds itself in a difficult position following its Jul 1997 decision to postpone the entry of Cambodia into the group. ASEAN had agreed in May 1997 to admit Burma, Laos and Cambodia. However, the violence in Cambodia surrounding the overthrowing of Prince Norodom Ranariddh by Hun Sen, persuaded ASEAN to delay Cambodia's entry. ASEAN made this decision despite its policy of non-interference in national affairs, and despite being willing to admit Burma, whose government also seized power with violence.
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Article Abstract:
Six Asian countries are vying for possession of the Spratly and Paracel island groups in the South China Sea. Military forces from five of these countries, China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Taiwan, are stationed in the islands that have been claimed by these countries as part of their territory. The sixth country, Brunei, has no military forces stationed in the area. Asian countries feel threatened by China's expansionist policy and the possible return of US military forces to enforce security within the region has not been discounted.
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Article Abstract:
China has occupied one of the Spratly islands, Mischief Reef, over which the Philippines claimed control. China's message seems to be that countries have to negotiate the Spratly issue on its terms or be willing to see China take possession of territories in the South China Sea. Philippines found out about the occupation well after it happened because the country does not have enough boats to continuously patrol the area. China's move is cause for concern for other ASEAN countries also.
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