Urgent Call for South China Sea Code: ASEAN Summit Highlights Maritime Tensions

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr urged Southeast Asian leaders and China to expedite negotiations on a South China Sea code of conduct at a regional summit. While confrontations continue between the Philippines and China, ASEAN leaders focus on maritime disputes, supply chain resilience, and Myanmar's crisis.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has called on Southeast Asian leaders and China to expedite discussions on a code of conduct for the South China Sea amid rising tensions. During a regional summit, Marcos accused Beijing of harassment and intimidation, highlighting the need for substantive progress to manage conflicts effectively.

The Philippines and China have faced a series of confrontations in the disputed South China Sea, prompting concerns over potential involvement by the United States due to its 1951 defense treaty with the Philippines. Marcos emphasized the urgency of resolving these disputes and expressed frustration at slow negotiations.

ASEAN leaders, joined by global counterparts, also addressed issues of supply chain resilience and the ongoing crisis in Myanmar. Despite varied views, the bloc aims to strengthen economic and security ties while exploring new strategies to achieve regional peace and cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies.)