Politics
16:12, 15-Nov-2018
Expert explains top 3 outcomes from China-ASEAN talks on South China Sea
Updated
15:31, 18-Nov-2018
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China hopes to complete talks on the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea within three years, Premier Li Keqiang has said, noting that finalizing such discussions will clinch a final deal to maintain peace in the region.
The South China Sea, once a region of volatile disputes, has become more stable in recent years, owing to joint efforts by China and ASEAN countries, according to experts.
"In recent years, China and ASEAN countries have unified their approach in settling the South China Sea disputes based on China's proposed 'dual track' approach," Deputy Director of the Institute of Chinese Borderland Studies, Li guoqiang told CGTN.
The first track includes negotiations and consultations among countries directly concerned, while the second consists of joint efforts to ensure peace and stability by China and ASEAN countries.
CGTN reporter Hou Na (R) interviews Deputy Director of the Institute of Chinese Borderland Studies Li Guoqiang, November 14, 2018. /CGTN Photo
CGTN reporter Hou Na (R) interviews Deputy Director of the Institute of Chinese Borderland Studies Li Guoqiang, November 14, 2018. /CGTN Photo
In his thirty years of studying South China Sea issues, Professor Li focuses on three major outcomes from China-ASEAN efforts.
First, China and ASEAN countries have made substantial agreements on working to complete the Code of Conduct talks on the South China Sea.
The second outcome is the first joint maritime exercise conducted by Chinese naval forces and ASEAN navies.
Li said the exercise exhibited the will and determination of both China and ASEAN to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea through cooperation. It was also a milestone in enhancing mutual trust between the two sides.
The third outcome is that the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative has provided fresh impetus in settling disputes from another angle.
Premier Li also highlighted the recent adoption of a single draft negotiating text of the COC.
Reaching agreement on the COC, he stressed, will not only benefit China and ASEAN nations but also enhance free trade, which is in the interest of all sides.