ASEAN determined to build COC framework

ASEAN Secretary-General Le Luong Minh and Member States' FMs to the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila, the Philippines on April 28, 2017. Photo: VNA

During their meeting in the Philippines on Friday, the Foreign Ministers stressed that ASEAN needs to continue its strong common voice and active role in making practical contribution to peace and stability in the region and the world as well.

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy PM, FM Pham Binh Minh urged ASEAN to have a sober, balanced and consistent approach while sharing his views on tensions in the regional and global situation.

He suggested that the bloc should consolidate internal strength, solidarity and unity, enhance coordination of their stance, and build up a common voice of ASEAN over regional and international issues of common concerns.

ASEAN needs to consolidate its centrality in ASEAN-led mechanisms while encouraging balanced and constructive presence and engagement of powers in the region.

Minh also called for greater involvement and contribution of ASEAN people in the Community building process, thus contributing to the consolidation of common peace, stability and prosperity.

Regarding the East Sea situation, Minh shared concerns of the member countries over complicated developments in the East Sea, including reclamation and militarization activities.

He said all countries must have the responsibility to contribute to peace, stability, security, safety and freedom of navigation and aviation on the East Sea, commit to settlement of disputes through peaceful measures with respect for international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, diplomatic and legal processes, and avoid using or threatening to use force.

Minh welcomed ASEAN and China to continue efforts to seriously and fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea and work toward formation of a Code of Conduct which is legally and really effective./.

By Kim Loan