Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) expressed concern over reclamation activities in the South China Sea which they think eroded trust and confidence in the region. In the Chairman Statement, the ASEAN, chaired by Singapore Prime Minister Lee HsienLoong, took note the activities in the disputed resource-filled waterway. “We discussed the matters relating to the South China Sea and took note of some concerns on the land reclamations and activities in the area, which have eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions and may undermine peace, security and stability in the region,” the statement read.

Geducos, A. B. (2018, November 16). ASEAN takes stronger stand on South China Sea issue. Manila Bulletin, pp. 1, 6.