Anwar Champions South China Sea Code at ASEAN Summit

During the ASEAN Leaders' Summit next month in the Philippines, Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia's Prime Minister, is set to advocate for a swift conclusion to the long-awaited South China Sea Code of Conduct (COC). This initiative aims to bolster regional stability and enable the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes.

In Kuala Lumpur, Anwar emphasized that despite some tensions, particularly between China and the Philippines, the overall conditions in the South China Sea remain stable. He noted ongoing constructive engagements among ASEAN countries and China in trade, security, and diplomatic relations.

The Malaysian leader underscored the necessity of addressing regional matters independently, free from external influence. He reiterated ASEAN’s dedication to preserving peace and cooperation while ensuring sovereignty and interests in vital maritime areas like the South China Sea and Indian Ocean.

Discussions about the Code of Conduct trace back to the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, with formal negotiations beginning in 2013. Leaders, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang, have previously expressed support for accelerating this process. The forthcoming summit is pivotal in steering discussions toward a legally binding framework.