Brussels: The European Union has commemorated the tenth anniversary of the Arbitral Award concerning the South China Sea, which was issued by an arbitral tribunal under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The EU has emphasized the importance of respecting and implementing this landmark decision, which is deemed final and legally binding upon the parties involved, namely the Philippines and China. According to European Union, the Arbitral Award of 2016, rendered by an independent and impartial tribunal, remains a cornerstone in the peaceful resolution of disputes. The EU has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to UNCLOS, which provides a universal legal framework for activities in the oceans and seas. The EU highlights the significance of upholding the freedoms, rights, and duties enshrined in UNCLOS, particularly the freedom of navigation and overflight, as these are vital for regional stability, global security, and the maintenance of open sea routes. The EU also expressed its sup port for the ongoing negotiations between ASEAN and China to establish a legally binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. The EU stresses that all disputes should be resolved through dialogue and peaceful means, grounded in international law, the United Nations Charter, and UNCLOS. The EU has voiced concern over the escalating tensions and dangerous incidents in the South China Sea. It opposes any unilateral actions that could destabilize the region and undermine the international order based on law. The EU remains committed to ensuring safe, free, and open maritime routes in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.