In the eighth session of the Southeast Asia in Focus Initiative, Ellen Frost, Senior Advisor and Fellow at East-West Center and Dr. Pek Koon Heng-Blackburn, Assistant Professor at American University joined Ben Dolven, Specialist in Asian Affairs at Congressional Research Service, for a conversation on the future strategies Southeast Asia should take in place to navigate future US-China relations, along with needs in developing independent relationship with both the US and China. Ellen highlighted the importance of US' action in SE Asia for reasons in defense and security, economics, and culture. She explained further that the region is an important partner of the US and the US is in competition with dominating influences with China. Dr. Pek Koon Heng-Blackburn reached out further into Indo-Pacfic region, saying that ASEAN and the US need cooperation to strengthen ties and influences. In the Q and A portion, there was discussion on tensions in South China Sea and Taiwan, how the pandemic has affected US businesses’ relations with the region, and what a new normal will be for the region and the globe.

Speakers

Ellen Frost, Senior Advisor and Fellow, East-West Center

Pek Koon Heng-Blackburn Ph.D., Assistant Professor, American University

Moderator

Ben Dolven, Specialist in Asian Affairs, Congressional Research Service

SOUTHEAST ASIA IN FOCUS PROGRAM

As Southeast Asia continues to grow in economic, strategic, and political importance, the US-Asia Institute is delighted to host its "SOUTHEAST ASIA IN FOCUS" initiative, a series of public, standalone webinars that examines the US relationship with Southeast Asian nations and key issues affecting the region. We will bring together experts, policymakers, public and private sector representatives, academics, and diplomats to address today's most pressing topics.