The Philippines and Malaysia are hopeful for the completion of an “effective” Code of Conduct in the South China Sea to help promote a “sea of peace, stability, and prosperity.”
President Duterte and Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad have called for a peaceful and rules-based resolution of the South China Sea dispute and recognized the importance of the CoC to prevent the escalation of conflict.
The two leaders held a bilateral meeting in Malacañang Thursday on wide-ranging issues, including enhancing cooperation on security, trade, and investment, and peace and development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
“They also underscored the importance of the full and effective implementation of the Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, in efforts to promote maritime security and cooperation, as well as building trust and confidence among concerned parties,” a joint statement of the leaders said.
“Both leaders also expressed their government’s hope for an effective Code of Conduct in the South China Sea,” it added.
The two countries are among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations member-countries with claims in the South China Sea, considered a vital sea lane for the region. China has sweeping claims in the region that has been protested by claimant nations.
A set of rules governing the conduct in the South China Sea are currently being negotiated by the ASEAN and China to manage the dispute for over two decades. (Genalyn Kabiling)
