Asean Chairman's Statement Notes Improving Cooperation Between Asean, China;Calls For Immediate Dialogue on N Korea

MANIILA, April 30 (Bernama) -- The 10-member countries block, ASEAN says it took note of the improving cooperation between the region and China, said the Chairman’s Statement issued at the end of the 30th Asean Summit on Saturday. It welcomed the progress to complete a framework of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) by middle of this year, in order to facilitate the early conclusion of an effective COC. “We recognised the long-term benefits that would be gained from having the South China Sea as a sea of peace, stability and sustainable development,” read the 124-point statement. The regional grouping also reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security and freedom of navigation and over-flight in and above the South China Sea. The grouping also took note of concerns expressed by some leaders over recent developments in the area. It also reaffirmed the importance of the need to enhance mutual trust and confidence, exercising self-restraint in the conduct of activities, and avoiding actions that may further complicate the situation, and pursuing the peaceful resolution of disputes, without resorting to the threat or use of force. It also underscored the importance of the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in its entirety. As for North Korea, the Chairman Statement expressed ASEAN’s grave concern over recent developments in the Korean Peninsula, North Korea’s two nuclear tests in 2016 and subsequent ballistic missile launches. These actions have resulted in an escalation of tensions that can affect peace and stability in the entire region. “We urge the North Korea to immediately comply fully with its obligations arising from all relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and stressed the importance of exercising self-restraint in the interest of maintaining peace, security and stability in the region and the world. “We reiterate our full support for the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula, and for concerned parties to explore all avenues for immediate dialogue,” it added. The Philippines, the Chairman of ASEAN 2017, has chosen the theme “Partnering for Change Engaging the World” to reflect the Philippine government’s advocacy to promote unity with and among ASEAN member states and its global partners. -- BERNAMA