Reuters: Xi tells Southeast Asian leaders China does not seek 'hegemony'
BEIJING (Reuters) -Chinese President Xi Jinping told leaders of the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at a summit on Monday that Beijing would not "bully" its smaller regional neighbours, amid rising tension over the South China Sea.
Beijing's territorial claims over the sea clash with those of several Southeast Asian nations and have raised alarm from Washington to Tokyo.
But Xi said China would never seek hegemony nor take advantage of its size to coerce smaller countries, and would work with ASEAN to eliminate "interference".
"China was, is, and will always be a good neighbour, good friend, and good partner of ASEAN," Chinse state media quoted Xi as saying.
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WNU Editor: Considering the fact that China is now embroiled in border disputes with almost every country in Asia, his claim that China is not seeking "hegemony" is falling on mostly deaf ears. In the case of the Philippines, they are not going to be intimidated .... Philippines set to resume resupply mission to South China Sea after standoff with China (CNN).
More News On Chinese President Xi Telling Southeast Asian Leaders That China Does Not Seek 'Hegemony'
President Xi Jinping says China won't seek dominance over Southeast Asia or bully smaller countries -- FOX News/AP
China will not seek dominance over South-East Asia, Xi Jinping says at ASEAN conference -- ABC News Australia
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China, ASEAN establish comprehensive strategic partnership -- China Daily