Philippines warns ASEAN risks being pulled apart by external pressures

Foreign ministers gather in Manila amid regional conflicts, major-power tensions

ASEAN chair and Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro delivers her opening statement during the ASEAN foreign ministers meeting in Metro Manila on July 21. © Reuters

MANILA -- Southeast Asian nations must remain united to combat geopolitical conflicts and pressure that threaten to pull the region apart, Philippine Foreign Secretary and ASEAN chair Maria Theresa Lazaro warned Tuesday as top diplomats from the 11-member bloc gathered in Manila for their annual conference.