Xi's stronger influence may change ASEAN policy toward Japan

Some diplomats in China have voiced concerns over President Xi Jinping's possible indefinite rule, warning that Beijing is set to adopt a tougher approach toward smaller Asian countries to expand its clout in the region.Most members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have maintained amicable ties with Japan, Asia's second-biggest economy after China, but they may start to keep their distance from Tokyo to protect their national interests over the next two decades, the diplomats said.On Tuesday, the annual session of China's parliament closed, after laying the groundwork for achie…READ FULL ARTICLE