Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized China’s historical friendship with Southeast Asia and its cooperative efforts during the coronavirus pandemic in meetings with Southeast Asian leaders in Indonesia. Li downplayed concerns over Beijing’s aggression in the South China Sea, citing the region’s stability and long-standing relations with China. Meanwhile, US Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted the strategic importance of US-Southeast Asia relations but did not make any strong criticisms of China’s actions in the region. Rival nations within ASEAN have protested against China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea, raising concerns about regional stability.