Upbeat words in Bangkok need corresponding actions

The messages from the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Bangkok, as well as that between the top diplomats of China and the United States appear more positive than anticipated.

If they can be delivered on, regional affairs would be less messy going forward.

ASEAN members agreed to conclude the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership negotiations within this year. Which is expected to greatly boost regional trade and uphold ASEAN centrality in the regional economic architecture.