From trade tension between South Korea and Japan to China’s positive outlook, the topics discussed at the most recent ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting spanned a variety of affairs. With the growing importance of the ASEAN region in global politics, it is important to analyze and understand the group’s discussions.

The negative consequences of U.S. involvement with Mekong countries are real but limited. The U.S. has the potential to continue to fuel tension over issues such as water resources in the region.

Just as U.S.-China competition will be a longstanding feature in international relations over the coming decade(s), a China-Russia axis to counter the United States will remain a core feature of global geopolitics.

Warming political ties over the past three years are beginning to produce economic and security dividends for both China and the Philippines. However, low public trust in China may not easily dissipate.

China is cooperating well with other countries in the South China Sea.

Over the past few weeks, both the United States and China have been engaged in a high-velocity diplomatic campaign to effectively box each other out of Southeast Asia.

China’s diplomatic forays into Southeast Asia are periodic and predictable. Yet Premier Li Keqiang may have his work cut out for him in upcoming forays to the region. Shifts in diplomatic outlook on the part of both the U.S. and China are changing the rules as tensions arise and polarize the region.

Mahathir’s election victory in Malaysia is likely to signal a shift in the country’s foreign policy vis-à-vis China. Investment deals with China are likely to face greater scrutiny and Malaysia may become more assertive in South China Sea disputes.

The 32nd ASEAN Summit, held in Singapore on April 27 and 28, saw the ASEAN adopting tough language against America’s trade protectionism, while pursuing further its blossoming relations with China.

Chinese tech firms are increasingly committing to market expansion across Southeast Asia. The development of the Digital Silk Road, especially in the ASEAN region, may provide clues about an emerging Chinese model of economic and political influence over information technology markets.