Asean upgrades strategic ties with China, says Myanmar is a key member

Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said Myanmar is an integral part of the Asean family and its membership has not been questioned. - Reuters

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Reuters): The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) said on Thursday (Oct 28) it has agreed with China to upgrade their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, a day after reaching a similar deal with Australia.

Australia's clinching of the elevated partnership was a symbolic win for Canberra in getting ahead of China in securing the first such deal with the South-East Asia region, which has become a strategic battleground between Beijing and Washington.