Asean, China Renews Wish To Conclude Code of Conduct in the South China Sea

The Asean-China Special Summit reaffirm the importance of upholding international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea or DOC.

The parties emphasise the need to maintain and promote an environment conducive to the negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC).

They look forward to the early conclusion of an effective and substantive COC that is in accordance with international law including the 1982 UNCLOS, within a mutually-agreed timeline.

Both Asean and China will continue to promote maritime security and safety, enhance mutual trust and confidence, and maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.

“Reaffirm our commitment to the freedom of navigation in and overflight above the South China Sea, to exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that would complicate or escalate disputes and affect peace and stability,” reads a statement issued by the Malaysian Foreign Affairs Ministry.

It says that the parties concerned will undertake to resolve territorial and jurisdictional disputes by peaceful means, without resorting to the threat or use of force, through friendly consultations and negotiations by sovereign states directly concerned.

These will be resolved, “in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS. Remain committed to meeting the aspirations of the Declaration for a Decade of Coastal and Marine Environmental Protection in the South China Sea (2017-2027).”

The Asean-China Special Summit is organised to Commemorate the 30th Anniversary of ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations today is an example of regional cooperation.

The relations between Asean and China are among the most dynamic, substantive, and mutually beneficial partnerships between Asean and its dialogue partners, which has become a good example of regional cooperation and contributes significantly to peace, stability, development and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.