Asean to exercise restraint on South China Sea issue

FILE – The Philippine government has protested the latest Chinese incursion in the West Philippine Sea where more than 200 vessels believed to be part of China’s maritime militia swarmed
the Julian Felipe Reef within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The foreign ministers of Southeast Asia and China have agreed to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could complicate or escalate disputes and affect peace and stability in the South China Sea.

In a statement, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) foreign ministers said they had also agreed to enhance and promote maritime security and uphold the freedom of navigation and overflight above the South China Sea.

At the same time, they pledged to pursue the peaceful resolution of disputes, in accordance with international law.

—TINA G. SANTOS