Cooperative inspections by China and Vietnam have been effective in some ways. But they have not resolved basic problems, including overfishing. With the latest agreement expiring in June, it’s time to think in a holistic way.

The South China Sea has seen an uptick in maritime showdown in recent months. The upshot is a dangerous, multifaceted Cold War just when the world needs maximum cooperation against COVID-19.

While other parts of the world struggle to manage the pandemic, East Asian leaders show dexterity and forward-thinking in recent pandemic responses and partnership summits.

China has used the Covid-19 pandemic as an opportunity to invest in and bolster diplomatic relations with a number of countries. The American counter strategy pales in comparison, opening the door for a more powerful China in the post-Covid world order.

At a time when countries all over the world face the onslaught of a rapidly mounting health crisis, one thing is clear: Sino-American and Asian-regional cooperation is paramount.

East Asia’s underlying regional identity has always emerged in moments of crisis. The current pandemic provides an opportunity to more formally develop the mechanisms of community.

The South China Sea has become even more hotly contested as Malaysia has begun to explore energy resources in areas previously claimed by Vietnam and China. The now-three-way naval standoff throws into uncertainty the future of the stability in the region.

Duterte’s decision to cut ties with the US exposes the Philippines to many geopolitical threats and represents a strategic victory for Beijing in the region.

Peace and stability in the South China Sea hinge on U.S. behavior. It should seek peaceful means to settle maritime disputes rather than playing by its own skewed interpretation of the rules.

A collective identity along the lines of the European Union is an attractive prospect in the era of globalization. But there are significant barriers, including the fact that it would exclude the United States.