Many critics have voiced their grave concerns that Asean is going to somewhat 'split' due mainly to growing pressures from super powers, namely China and the US. Is this a bit overreacting?
It's a big worry to have to face this prospect if it were true, as ASEAN has just marked its formal opening of the community. So, what's happening?
Will Asean crack under pressure?
Four members have joined the TPP, namely Singapore, Vietnam, Brunei, and Malaysia. The Philippines as we know is a close ally of the US.
The fact is obvious that there are Asean members worrying about the growing assertiveness of China in the South China Sea.
The other members such as Thailand, Myanmar, Indonesia, Laos, and Cambodia are considering the options.
Here we have witnessed a small crack.
The Split in Asean would make Asean weak and open opportunities for bigger powers to take full advantages of this split. It's a pity to see the direction of Asean heading toward this disintegration, at least in its strategic directions, only a few weeks after its official inauguration. But this is not new.
In order to prevent this undesirable situation it is necessary for Asean members to stay united as a single entity And be more confident in its position.
Some critics point out that the split is the result of this and that. But it is something Asean members need to do something about it.
ASEAN should adhere to its charter in both spirit and letters.
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