China Seeks Upgrade of Ties With Asean in Lead-Up to Xi Summit
- Premier Li Keqiang’s proposal comes hours ahead of Biden meet
- South China Sea rivalries remain a sticking point in region
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China wants to upgrade its relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, calling for a special summit next month that President Xi Jinping will attend as the world’s second largest economy seeks to expand its reach in a region where the U.S. is also vying for influence.
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang delivered the proposal at the Asean-China summit in Brunei on Tuesday, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in remarks delivered during the meeting.