Statement on the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Communique on Addressing Global Challenges, Fostering Partnerships 19 April 2024

MANILA, 21 April 2024 – The Philippines welcomes the G7 Foreign Ministers’ reiteration of their collective commitment to the rule of law and to the rules-based maritime order anchored on the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as well as their commitment to sustainable and inclusive economic development as expressed in their “Statement on Addressing Global Challenges, Fostering Partnership” issued on 19 April 2024 in Capri, Italy. 

The Philippines is firmly committed to UNCLOS and the binding Arbitral Award of 2016. Respect for international law, particularly for the recognized maritime entitlements of coastal states in the South China Sea and the freedom of navigation enjoyed by the international community, is essential to ensuring global prosperity, peace and stability. These are fundamental values that benefit not only the Indo-Pacific region, but the wider community of nations. 

As such, we appreciate the G7’s support in rejecting China’s baseless and expansive claims, and their call for China to cease its illegal activities, particularly its use of coast guard and maritime militia in the South China Sea that engage in dangerous maneuvers and the use of water cannons against Philippine vessels. We duly note and appreciate the G7’s reaffirmation that the 2016 Arbitral Award is a significant milestone and a useful basis for the peaceful management and resolution of differences at sea. 

The Philippines shares the G7’s vision of a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region, and stands firm against any actions that undermine international security and stability. 

We want to see a South China Sea of peace, stability and prosperity, and the cessation of interference, obstruction and harassment of the Philippines’ legal activities within our recognized maritime entitlements. 

The Philippines is keen to see an inclusive and economically dynamic Indo-Pacific that benefits the region’s peoples. We welcome the G7’s economic initiatives, particularly investments within the framework of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, and its recognition of the strategic importance of the Luzon Economic Corridor in driving inclusive and sustainable development. We stand ready to cooperate with the G7 in its efforts to support economic growth in the Philippines and the Indo-Pacific. 

Finally, the Philippines takes note of the various global challenges identified by the G7 statement and underscores its readiness to positively contribute to the collective efforts of the international community to address them. END