Statement on the Finalization of the Draft Framework of the Code of Conduct

19 May 2017 - The Philippines welcomes the finalization by ASEAN and China senior officials of the draft framework of the Code of Conduct. 

The draft framework, which was completed ahead of the mid-2017 goal set by the Leaders of ASEAN and China, contains elements which the parties have agreed upon. The draft framework will be presented to the Foreign Ministers of ASEAN and China at their Post-Ministerial Conference in Manila in August 2017 for their consideration.

The Philippines reaffirms its commitment to working towards an effective Code of Conduct for the South China Sea. END