Philippines announces its position on the South China Sea after assuming the ASEAN chairmanship! During the 47th ASEAN Summit, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a statement saying that in matters concerning the South China Sea, the Philippines will engage in comprehensive diplomatic and mutually beneficial cooperation with ASEAN and China.
"The Philippines is committed to working with regional groups to develop codes of conduct that comply with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and will not abandon the rights and interests of third parties, effectively regulating the behavior of all parties at sea."
"The Philippines is ready to cooperate with ASEAN and China through mutually beneficial cooperation to turn our commitments into meaningful results. However, it must be clear that such cooperation cannot coexist with coercion."
"By building our partnership on the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty and equality and compliance with international law, we can ensure that ASEAN-China cooperation continues to bring tangible and meaningful benefits to our people while advancing our shared vision for peace, stability, prosperity, and sustainable development in the region."
President Marcos also suggested diplomatic cooperation to prevent accidents, such as establishing mechanisms that allow fishermen to access their traditional fishing grounds without interference, or making arrangements to limit activities in uninhabited areas.
"Of course, if we truly hope that the South China Sea continues to be a sea of peace, stability, and prosperity for everyone, we should not ignore the importance of self-restraint by each party. Otherwise, failing to curb provocative and dangerous actions will further threaten the peace and stability we have built and nurtured over the years."
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1847273101631628/
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