China scores tacit victory at Asean on South China Sea

China's efforts to assert its dominance over the Sea have in past angered Southeast Asian nations

China won approval from Southeast Asian leaders on Saturday at a meeting where US allies in Asia have previously criticised Beijing over its actions in disputed maritime territory.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which has enjoyed an upswing in relations with China for some time, ended a summit in Manila with a statement noting “the improving cooperation between Asean and China” in the South China Sea.

The leaders also welcomed “progress to complete a framework of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea” by the middle of this year, and recognised “the long-term benefits” of peace, stability