At the event, many of the contributors voiced their concerns over the unilateral actions by China in the East Sea, and said that China should be a responsible and co-operative nation acting in a mutually-beneficial way in accordance with regional and international frameworks.
Discussing the current regional security situation, academics voiced their concerns over unilateral claims in the East Sea. Contributors especially highlighted the construction of artificial islands, runway and recent flights to an airfield China illegally built on the Spratly Archipelago's Fiery Cross Reef.
In the current context, academics highlighted the importance of regional frameworks such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Such organisations should be strengthened and connected with China so that all parties involved can work together for mutual benefit and in accordance with international law.
The Regional Outlook Forum is an annual event organised by the Singaporean Institute of Southeast Asian Studies Yusof Ishak Institute to raise understanding of key developments in Southeast Asia. This year's forum saw about 550 attendees from many countries.
