EU backs ASEAN and China on South China Sea code

2 min read

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the EU supports efforts by ASEAN and China to conclude a legally binding code of conduct in the South China Sea, and reiterated commitment to freedom of navigation and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Kallas met Filipino counterpart Ma. Theresa Lazaro in Manila, where they signed a joint statement upgrading Philippines-EU ties to an enhanced partnership. The article notes ASEAN and China are making significant progress toward a COC by year-end, amid continuing tensions and Manila's stated aim to reset ties with China.

EU supports a legally binding code and upgrades Philippines ties