South China Sea: Nations Aim for Peaceful Cooperation

China calls for focus on collaboration, not conflict, in regional waters.

Amid ongoing discussions regarding the South China Sea, there’s a push from some nations to shift the narrative toward peace and cooperation, rather than disputes. Tensions remain, yet progress is being made.

Call for a New Approach

Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, addressed reporters at the ASEAN Plus foreign ministers’ meetings in Kuala Lumpur, emphasizing a need to reframe how the South China Sea is viewed. He argued the focus should be on peace, stability, and cooperation, instead of friction and confrontation.

According to Wang, the discussions surrounding the South China Sea during the China-ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting were notably calmer, reflecting a sense of stability in the region. He stated that navigation and overflight are proceeding without issues.

Wang also noted that “What struck me most this time is the clear temperature difference between regional countries and a few countries from outside the region.”

External Interference Alleged

The foreign minister criticized certain nations outside the region for continuing to make what he termed “irresponsible remarks” about the South China Sea. According to Wang, these countries appear to fear the South China Sea will not be chaotic, and regional countries are aware of these “old tricks.”

Moving Towards a Code of Conduct

According to Wang, China and ASEAN countries have reached an agreement to enhance the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) by creating a Code of Conduct (COC). The aim is for this code to be effective, substantive, and in line with international law.

All parties involved are aiming to finalize the COC next year, which Wang believes is achievable. Consultations will increase in frequency as the process gains momentum. A recent report by the Council on Foreign Relations highlights the complexities of these negotiations and the competing interests at play (CFR.org).

He added, “We have the confidence, capability, and wisdom to maintain stability in the South China Sea, remove external interference, and jointly build the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation.”

China’s Stance on Arbitration

During the meetings, Wang also addressed China’s view on the South China Sea arbitration case, asserting it has serious flaws regarding fact-finding and application of law. He said the case damaged regional peace, stability, and the maritime order.

According to Wang, the arbitration was a “political manipulation and should be thrown into the trash heap of history.”