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Strategic analysts identify submarine operations as a critical weakness in China's rapidly expanding aircraft carrier programme, with undersea detection gaps potentially exposing high-value vessels to attack in regional waters.
The US Pacific Command has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security and stability in the South China Sea, pledging to work with individual ASEAN nations according to their sovereign interests while upholding international law and freedom of navigation.
ASEAN and India have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties at the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, with emphasis on maritime cooperation, trade and regional security amid global economic pressures.
President Trump has moderated his criticism of China's alleged election meddling ahead of Secretary of State Marco Rubio's meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila on Wednesday, signalling Washington's willingness to engage diplomatically despite recent accusations.
Japan has pledged deeper cooperation with ASEAN, China, and South Korea on energy security and online fraud prevention at a foreign ministers' meeting in Manila, highlighting the region's growing economic influence.
Indonesia has granted its highest state honour to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his state visit, recognising his role in strengthening the two nations' Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and development cooperation.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held talks to expand defence, trade and strategic cooperation between the two nations, with eight agreements expected to be signed.