China’s agreement to discuss a code of conduct with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations aimed at avoiding tension and conflict in the South China Sea is a significant change of tone in relations with the 10-member group that reflects its growing role as a regional and global power. A framework for co-operation agreed between Beijing and Asean more than a decade ago could have led to a code of conduct. But until now Beijing has insisted that territorial disputes in the South China Sea involving China and Asean nations be resolved bilaterally between Beijing and each of the other nations.