MANILA: Asean, the European Union (EU) and the US have pledged to ensure maritime security in the South China Sea at the 31st Asean Summit and Related Summits here.
The Asean-EU stand, which establishes freedom of navigation and overflight, is contained in a joint statement issued after their summit on Tuesday, the final day of the two-day Summit.
The same position was jointly issued by Asean and the US.
Released by the White House, the statement highlights Asean and the US’s support for mutual respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
They are also committed to peaceful resolution of disputes without resorting to threats or use of force.
"We are dedicated to maintaining peace, security and stability in the region, and ensuring maritime security, including the rights of freedom of navigation and overflight," the statement read.
The same stand was highlighted in the joint statement issued after the Asean-EU Summit.
Meanwhile, Asean and China agreed on Monday to commence discussions on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.