The East Asia Summit I

The East Asia Summit I

When the decision was made last year to hold this summit, it
was welcomed as an ambitious attempt that could change the future
of Asia. But the initial enthusiasm seems to have waned,
particularly after relations between China and Japan deteriorated
further this year over the Yasukuni Shrine issue.

Washington also put a damper on the plans when it expressed
apprehensions of forming an Asian community without its
involvement.

To proceed with the East Asia Community concept, ASEAN members
must work hard as the core group, but cooperation between China
and Japan is also indispensable. It is unfortunate that relations
have deteriorated so far that the leaders can't even hold a
summit. Both should recognize the magnitude of their
responsibility.
-- The Asahi Shimbun, Tokyo