ASEAN urged to maintain good ties with US, China

BANGKOK, January 17 (TNA) - A world-class lecturer has urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to maintain sound relations with both the United States and China and cooperate well with both countries simultaneously. Delivering a special lecture on Tuesday at Thammasat Univerty, Prachan Campus, Dr. David Shambaugh, a professor for Political Science and International Affairs from US-based University of George Washington, pointed out that both the United States and China possess pros and cons, advising ASEAN to uphold sound relations and cooperation with both parties at the same time during the tenure of US President-elect Donald Trump. Dr. Shambaugh acknowledged ASEAN could be indirectly affected by an anticipated more intense competition in various dimensions between the United States and China during Trump's term, including an increase in military forces, disputed areas and free trade. Dr. Shambaugh cautioned although the US President-elect, who will take office late this week, has not yet announced a clear policy on ASEAN, the United States is believed to try to retain its influence in the Southeast Asian region to hedge China's growing influence in the region. (TNA)