"Any steps by China to assuage the concerns that many countries in ASEAN have about Chinese behavior and intentions would strengthen peace and stability in the region and would be welcomed by the United States. I view concrete measures as especially helpful, such as the proposed China-ASEAN hotline to respond to maritime emergencies. Additional such confidence-building measures aimed at averting conflict and promoting cooperation would be a valuable contribution."

Bonnie Glaser, senior adviser for Asia in the Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies

"Isn't it ironic that President Obama had to cancel his visit to Malaysia and the Philippines because he is presiding over a dysfunctional government while President Xi is the first foreign leader to address Indonesia's parliament. The contrast in implications couldn't be more dramatic.