Twelve countries, including the United States and key Indo-Pacific partners, have restated their dedication to a “free and open Indo-Pacific” and the rules-based international order. This affirmation coincides with the 10th anniversary of a significant 2016 tribunal ruling that dismissed China’s extensive maritime claims in the South China Sea. The joint statement, endorsed by nations such as Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom, emphasizes the importance of a peaceful, stable, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
The statement acknowledges the 2016 decision by the Arbitral Tribunal under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, describing it as a pivotal and unanimous ruling concerning the South China Sea. It stresses the necessity of resolving maritime disputes peacefully and in adherence to international law, particularly UNCLOS. The governments also highlight the tribunal’s conclusion that China’s broad maritime claims in the South China Sea lack a legal basis, including those rooted in ‘historic rights.’
The countries underscore the significance of upholding freedom of navigation, overflight, and other lawful sea uses as outlined in UNCLOS. While expressing concerns about actions that could jeopardize regional stability, the statement strongly opposes any unilateral or destabilizing activities that threaten peace and stability in the area. The governments also reject the use of coast guard, military, or maritime militia forces to disrupt lawful operations by other States at sea or in the air.
Reiterating support for ASEAN’s vision for the region, the nations affirm their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. They aim to promote a vision of the South China Sea as a zone of peace, stability, cooperation, and prosperity driven by legitimate commerce. The South China Sea, claimed by multiple countries, has seen tensions due to conflicting claims, making it a critical strategic area in the Indo-Pacific region.
