U.S., ASEAN leaders vow to upgrade ties this year amid China's rise

WASHINGTON - The leaders of the United States and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on Friday declared that they will elevate their relationship to a "comprehensive strategic partnership" later this year amid China's growing clout in the region.China has preceded the United States in upgrading its relations with the 10-member group to a similar status, and the latest development reflects intensifying competition between Beijing and Washington for influence in the fast-growing Southeast Asian region.U.S. President Joe Biden told a meeting with his counterparts in Washington, "We're…READ FULL ARTICLE