Wang Yi Stresses Peace and Cooperation in South China Sea

Wang Yi, China’s foreign minister, said the South China Sea remains one of the world’s busiest, safest and most open shipping routes.

Speaking at a press conference in Beijing during the fourth session of the National People's Congress of China, Wang stressed that peace, cooperation and friendship should guide the region.

He said cooperation in the South China Sea has maintained positive momentum over the past year. China has held in-depth discussions with Indonesia on joint maritime development, conducted bilateral talks with Malaysia on maritime issues, and worked with Vietnam on sustainable fisheries development. He also noted that China’s coast guard recently rescued more than a dozen fishermen from the Philippines who were in distress in the South China Sea.

Wang said achieving lasting peace and stability in the region requires strong institutional support and mechanisms to manage differences. He also urged the Philippines, as this year’s Association of Southeast Asian Nations chair, to fulfill its responsibilities and contribute positively to regional stability.

He further said that countries in Latin America and the Caribbean should choose their own development paths. The fourth session of the National People’s Congress is scheduled to continue until March 12.