ASEAN Urges Prudence on South China Sea, Welcomes COC Progress

ASEAN has called for all parties involved in the South China Sea to exercise wisdom and prudence to prevent escalation of geopolitical tensions that could threaten regional security and global trade. Malaysia's Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, emphasized ASEAN's commitment to maintaining peace and stability amid fragile global conditions and highlighted the importance of concluding an effective and substantive Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea with full cooperation from all parties. The current negotiations, led by ASEAN member states and China with Malaysia as co-chair, represent a rare moment of unity and progress after 15 years of stalled discussions. Additionally, ASEAN welcomed China's readiness to become the first Nuclear Weapon State to sign and ratify the Protocol to the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Treaty without reservations, marking a significant step toward nuclear non-proliferation in the region. Malaysia, as the Country Coordinator for ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations, is dedicated to strengthening partnerships to deliver tangible benefits for the people in the region. Overall, ASEAN stresses the need for careful management of the South China Sea issues to uphold peace, security, and global trade stability.