TOKYO -- Malaysia's former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Friday downplayed China's claims to much of the South China Sea, arguing it is more important to avoid clashing with the country led by "ambitious" President Xi Jinping.
Malaysia's ex-leader urges ASEAN to stay neutral, eyes possible Trump return in U.S.

Malaysian former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad speaks at the Future of Asia forum in Tokyo on May 24, 2024. (Photo by Mizuho Miyazaki)
TOKYO -- Malaysia's former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on Friday downplayed China's claims to much of the South China Sea, arguing it is more important to avoid clashing with the country led by "ambitious" President Xi Jinping.