A former Lao diplomat says territorial disputes in the South China Sea should not impede the development of relations between China and ASEAN.

Soukthavy Keola is a former counselor at the Lao Embassy in China. He says the two sides have more common interests and prospects for development than differences.

He says the arbitration case was against the interests of people from both sides. He added if countries directly concerned can discuss the South China Sea issue earnestly and with goodwill, they will find an acceptable solution.