Manila, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III will once again underscore the importance of a peaceful resolution of the disputes in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) by promoting his government’s proposal for a Zone of Peace, Freedom, Friendship and Cooperation (ZoPFF/C) in the region when he attends the 19th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits on November 17 to 19.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the President will first meet his ASEAN counterparts during the 19th ASEAN Summit on November 17. Aside from maritime security, the DFA said President Aquino will promote other Philippine advocaciesfor ASEAN to ensure the full implementation of the ASEAN Charter. (Roy C. Mabasa)