Manila: Japan has urged for a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea that is not only substantive but also respects the rights of nations not directly involved in the ongoing disputes in the region. Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya emphasized this during a panel discussion at the Manila Dialogue on the South China Sea held in Taguig City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ambassador Endo highlighted the necessity for the COC to be effective and align with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He stressed the importance of respecting the legitimate rights and interests of all stakeholders involved, even if they are not party to the negotiations. Despite Japan not being directly involved in the COC negotiations, Endo noted that the situation in the South China Sea is crucial to the region’s peace and stability.

The proposed COC seeks to expand upon the 2002 Declaration of Conduct in the South China Sea, aiming to establish a set of rules that manage tensions in the area. As the upcoming 2026 chair of ASEAN, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stated that the Philippines is committed to advancing the COC discussions toward a conclusion by next year.

The maritime dispute in the South China Sea involves several coastal states, including the Philippines and China. Japan, among other countries, has criticized Beijing’s assertive actions over the past year, as it seeks to enforce its claims over the strategic sea route.

ASEAN 2025 Chair and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed that ASEAN aims to resolve the South China Sea issue internally and with regional partners. He pointed out that the bloc prefers solutions that are not perceived as being imposed by external forces, which could lead to increased tension and complications.