Pasay City: Australia renewed its call for a South China Sea code of conduct (COC) that would not prejudice the rights of third party states on the vital sea lane. Australian Ambassador HK Yu made the comment as talks on an effective code between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) progress, with negotiators looking to finish the agreement by 2026.
According to Philippines News Agency, Yu emphasized the need for the COC to protect not only the members but also all users of the waterways, including non-participants like Australia. She made these remarks to reporters on the sidelines of the Foreign Service Institute Ambassadors' Lecture Series in Pasay City. During the 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia on May 26, leaders of member states agreed to conclude an 'effective and substantive' COC early, ensuring it aligns with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
In recent negotiations held in Manila, ASEAN and Beijing discussed 'milestone issues' such as the relationship of the COC with the Declaration of Conduct on the South China Sea. Currently, there has been no explicit announcement on whether a legally binding COC will be established, distinguishing it from the non-binding DOC.
Yu reiterated Australia's longstanding commitment to freedom of navigation and overflight over international waters, including the South China Sea. She highlighted the economic significance of these waterways for Australia, which relies heavily on exports passing through them. She underscored the importance of ensuring that activities at sea comply with UNCLOS.
Canberra envisions playing a role in maintaining a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. Yu noted the bipartisan support within Australia for this vision, emphasizing the country's geographical and strategic ties to Southeast Asia and the Pacific island nations. She expressed Australia's commitment to working with regional partners to uphold the rules-based order that has contributed to peace, stability, and prosperity over the decades.
