STATEMENT ON LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN THE SOUTH CHINA SEA
We reaffirm our commitment to the maintenance of peace, stability and security in the South China Sea.
Recalling the obligations of State Parties to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), it is essential that questions of maritime delimitation be agreed upon in accordance with the provisions and procedures of UNCLOS.
Maritime entitlements of mainland and insular territory, and other maritime features are governed exclusively by international law, in particular UNCLOS.
We maintain our two-step approach in addressing the South China Sea in which specific issues should be addressed bilaterally by countries concerned through peaceful dialogue and consultations, in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS.
In addition, all countries concerned need to promote a calm, peaceful and conducive environment, building confidence and enhancing mutual trust in the region.
We reaffirm our commitment to the full and effective implementation of the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and stress the importance of working actively towards the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC).
Issued on 2 September 2023
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Brunei Darussalam
