Anwar Champions South China Sea Code at ASEAN Summit

At the forthcoming ASEAN Leaders’ Summit in the Philippines, Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will advocate for ASEAN and China to hasten the completion of the long-overdue South China Sea Code of Conduct (COC). This initiative is aimed at bolstering regional stability and ensuring the peaceful resolution of maritime conflicts.

In his address in Kuala Lumpur, Anwar pointed out that while there have been moments of tension, particularly involving China and the Philippines, the overall environment in the South China Sea has remained relatively calm. He underscored the sustained constructive dialogue among ASEAN states and China regarding trade, security, and diplomacy.

Anwar Ibrahim reiterated the need for regional matters to be addressed internally, free from outside influence. He reaffirmed the commitment of ASEAN to safeguard its sovereignty and strategic interests in vital maritime areas such as the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean while promoting peace and cooperation.

Discussions around the Code of Conduct have roots tracing back to the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, with formal negotiations starting in 2013. Leaders, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang, have previously expressed support for accelerating this process. The upcoming summit is anticipated to be pivotal in pushing negotiations toward a legally binding agreement.

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