By Pia Lee-Brago
MANILA, Philippines - China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are expected to endorse a framework for a code of conduct in the South China Sea during a meeting in Manila, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said yesterday.
The framework aims to better manage the region and regulate future behavior of parties claiming stakes in the disputed territory.
Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi will attend the meeting set on Sunday.
After the framework is endorsed, the ministers are also expected to direct a joint working group to begin discussions on the actual code.
The framework aims to “establish a rules-based framework that contains a set of norms” to guide the conduct of parties in the South China Sea and calls for closer cooperation to avoid disputes.
It also calls for “a favorable environment for the peaceful settlement of disputes, ensures maritime security and safety and freedom of navigation.”
Read the full story at PhilStar