Balancing or Dividing?

In the words of U.S. President Joe Biden, his first summit in Washington, D.C. with leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) marked the launch of a “new era” in the U.S. relationship with the 10-nation bloc.

The gathering, taking place on May 12-13, officially commemorated 45 years of U.S.-ASEAN ties. It was set for late March but was postponed due to scheduling issues. However, except for being present at a welcome dinner, Biden spared just two hours for a group meeting with the eight visiting Southeast Asian leaders. There were no bilateral meetings. Philippine President Rodrigo