BEIJING: In response to a question regarding ASEAN’s emphasis at last week’s ASEAN Summit on the need to conclude a legally binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) based on international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as well as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s remarks expressing optimism about finalizing the COC within the year, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun made remarks at a regular media briefing on Monday.
Guo said the formulation of the COC is an important step in implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and reflects an important consensus between China and ASEAN countries.
He added that it helps better manage differences among parties, promote cooperation, and maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.
Guo further stated that China is currently maintaining close consultations with ASEAN countries over the text of the COC, expressing hope that all parties will remain committed to the agreed goal, focus on consensus-building, resist and exclude external interference, and work together to reach and finalize the COC at an early date.
