Start GRASP/China Don’t meddle in Asean, big powers told

Don’t meddle in Asean, big powers told

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NewsHubDAVAO CITY—President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday urged the United States, China, Russia and other dialogue-partners of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) not to meddle in its affairs as the Philippines formally assumed the chairmanship of the regional bloc.
Mr. Duterte was uncharacteristically staid when he delivered his 12-minute prepared speech. It was a departure from his usually impromptu and profanity-laden talk.
“I also call on Asean dialogue-partners to renew their dedication to the valued purposes and principles stated in the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, including noninterference, in promoting regional peace and stability through abiding respect for the rule of law,” he said.
He slightly raised his voice to emphasize the word “noninterference.”
“Now, more than ever,” Mr. Duterte said, “it is a time for real change through constructive engagements.

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