China, Asean strive for early conclusion of code of conduct in South China Sea

 

China is working with Asean nations for the early conclusion of the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, with the second reading of the COC completed and now into the third reading.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi who said this also gave assurance that the South China Sea would remain a "sea of peace and cooperation".

"The most important experience we have drawn is that we must adhere to two principles. First, differences should be properly managed and resolved through dialogues and consultations or negotiations between states directly involved.

"Second, peace at sea should be upheld by China and Asean countries by working together. These are also the core principles in the declaration in the conduct of parties in the South China Sea signed in 2002," Wang (above) told a media conference Thursday.

He noted that China has been exercising a high degree of restraint on maritime disputes.

"We maintain that parties should find solutions that are acceptable to each other and to all by working on the spirit of good neighbours and friendship and on the basis of respecting historical and legal facts. But abuse in such good faith will not be allowed," he said.

He also urged "certain countries" outside the region not to make provocations, take sides or stir up troubles and problems in the South China Sea.

"Upon holding peace and stability in the South China Sea, it is important that China and Asean continue to implement the COC and at the same time accelerate negotiations in the COC and establish regional rules that are more effective, substantive in line with international law, including the law of the sea," Wang added.

- Bernama