Southeast Asian leaders urged for quick agreement on a code of conduct for the South China Sea based on international law and called for an immediate halt to the fighting in Myanmar. They also called for inclusive peace talks to end the civil war in Myanmar.
The ASEAN chairman’s statement, representing the consensus from meetings that concluded on Friday, included diplomats from the United States, Russia, China, Japan, India, and South Korea.
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Tensions have been escalating in the disputed waters of the South China Sea between China and ASEAN members like the Philippines and Vietnam. This has raised concerns about a potential escalation involving the United States, which has a treaty obligation to defend the Philippines if attacked.
The ASEAN statement emphasized the need for confidence-building measures to reduce tensions and the risk of accidents in the South China Sea. It also mentioned the positive momentum in talks for a maritime code to settle disputes in the region.
The ASEAN bloc expressed the importance of concluding an effective and substantive code of conduct in the South China Sea that aligns with international law, including the U.N. convention.
Regarding Myanmar, ASEAN called for an immediate cessation of violence and the establishment of a conducive environment for humanitarian assistance and inclusive national dialogue led by Myanmar. The ongoing conflict between Myanmar’s military government and the armed resistance is a major concern for the region.
ASEAN welcomed Thailand’s initiative to host informal talks on Myanmar later in the year, potentially involving other ASEAN members.
Published – October 13, 2024 01:37 pm IST
