24 July 2014 - Amid worsening conditions in the South China Sea, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario called on the European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to join efforts to promote a rules-based approach in the settlement of maritime disputes in the region.
Speaking to foreign ministers who were gathered yesterday at the 20th ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting in Brussels, Secretary Del Rosario said the submission by the Philippines of its claim to arbitration under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is a manifestation of its commitment towards peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.
Lady Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, echoed Secretary Del Rosario's call and affirmed EU's support for the right of claimants to seek resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including through legal dispute settlement mechanisms. She urged against unilateral attempts by any party to assert its claims through the use of intimidation, coercion or force.
The foreign ministers present at the meeting endorsed the call of Lady Ashton and enjoined parties to seriously implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea towards the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.
The foreign ministers also exchanged views on the situation of the two regions as well as issues of mutual concern, including the evolving regional architecture in East Asia and non-traditional security challenges such as climate change, natural disasters and maritime security and safety.
Before the meeting ended, the ministers took concerted action of expressing their shock and indignation over the tragic downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH 17. They called for a full and thorough independent international investigation into the downing in accordance with international civil aviation guidelines.
The 20th ASEAN-EU Ministerial Meeting drew the participation of foreign ministers from the 10 ASEAN and 28 EU member states. END