The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China are making significant strides toward concluding the long-awaited Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea by the end of the year, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro announced on Thursday.
Speaking at a press conference at the International Media Center following the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings, Secretary Lazaro highlighted a renewed sense of momentum and shared political commitment among China and the 11 ASEAN member states.
“On the South China Sea, what was given attention is the Code of Conduct that ASEAN and China are geared towards… hopefully the conclusion of the Code of Conduct by the end of this year,” said Lazaro, who chaired this year’s ministerial gathering under the Philippines’ chairship.
To meet the year-end target, negotiations have moved at an unprecedented pace. Negotiators have maintained a monthly meeting cadence since January—an intensification of diplomatic talks that Lazaro cited as concrete proof of all parties’ resolve to finalize the framework.
Key highlights and progress areas of the negotiations include:
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Growing Consensus on Self-Restraint: Negotiators have reached broader alignment on the principle of self-restraint, establishing core terms of reference to lower tensions and prevent miscalculations at sea.
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Core Legal Framework: Talks continue regarding the COC’s geographical scope, its legal nature, and its integration with the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties (DOC) in the South China Sea.
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Adherence to International Law: The proposed COC remains strictly anchored on the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) while respecting the rights of non-signatory third parties.
Addressing questions regarding recent maritime incidents—including confrontations near Ayungin Shoal and Scarborough Shoal—Secretary Lazaro confirmed that real-world developments on the water are being directly addressed as part of the ongoing deliberations.
The finalized Code of Conduct aims to establish binding, predictable rules governing behavior and conduct in the South China Sea, reinforcing regional stability and peaceful dispute resolution.
