MANILA — Negotiations between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China on a long-awaited Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea have reached 70 percent completion, raising hopes that the regional framework could soon be finalized.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) disclosed the latest development during a media briefing following the opening of the International Media Center in Pasay City for the 49th ASEAN Summit.
DFA spokesperson for ASEAN matters Dominic Xavier Imperial said negotiators have made considerable progress but still need to settle the remaining 30 percent of the proposed agreement.
He emphasized that discussions remain ongoing and that the timeline for completing the negotiations has yet to be determined.
Imperial said the Philippines wants the COC to establish clear guidelines governing the conduct of all parties operating in the South China Sea. Manila is also pushing for provisions that would recognize and protect the rights of countries outside the negotiations.
The Philippine position underscores the importance of ensuring that the proposed agreement promotes maritime stability without compromising the legitimate rights and interests of other nations.
Maritime security and regional cooperation are also expected to figure prominently during the upcoming ASEAN-China Summit, which coincides with the fifth anniversary of the ASEAN-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Negotiating teams are expected to provide further updates as regional leaders gather in Manila. Chinese Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent President Xi Jinping at the summit.
Earlier, Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa “Tess” Lazaro expressed optimism that the ASEAN-China COC could be completed before the end of the year.
Lazaro said the agreement should help address concerns involving sovereignty and maritime rights in the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea.
The proposed framework is intended to provide mechanisms to peacefully manage competing territorial claims and prevent tensions from escalating in one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. – Tracy Cabrera
IA/XF
