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CHINA has expressed firm support for the completion of the long-awaited Code of Conduct (CoC) in the South China Sea, signalling renewed commitment to dialogue and regional stability, Malaysian Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said on Friday.
Speaking after chairing the 19th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM), Khaled said the assurance was conveyed by Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun during a luncheon held between ASEAN and Chinese defence ministers.
“During our luncheon with Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun, he stated China’s support for the formulation of the Code of Conduct on the South China Sea. We look forward to its materialisation,” Khaled told reporters.
Khaled said ASEAN viewed China not only as a strategic partner but also as a key driver of shared prosperity and regional stability.
He noted that Beijing’s global initiatives — including the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI) and Global Governance Initiative (GGI) — reflected its leadership and commitment to an inclusive international order.
“These initiatives clearly demonstrate that China’s policies are not solely focused on advancing its own development but also on ensuring that other nations prosper alongside it,” Khaled said in his luncheon address.
He added that ASEAN recognised China as a pivotal partner in shaping a peaceful and sustainable regional environment.
“As a leader in global prosperity, China carries responsibilities that go beyond economic growth. We hope China will continue to uphold international law, promote reconciliation efforts, and help prevent conflicts before they arise.”
Reaffirming ASEAN’s commitment to collective security, Khaled said the bloc valued China’s consistent support in maintaining peace while respecting member states’ sovereignty.
“Peace and prosperity are deeply intertwined. Regional stability brings shared growth, mutual trust, and enduring partnerships that safeguard long-term harmony,” he said.
Khaled also emphasised that ASEAN’s partnership with China extended beyond diplomacy, symbolising mutual confidence and meaningful cooperation.
“This meeting represents more than formal dialogue — it is a reflection of trust and shared purpose between ASEAN and China,” he said.
The South China Sea CoC, first proposed in the early 2000s, aims to establish legally binding rules to manage disputes and prevent escalation in one of the world’s most contested waterways.
Beijing’s renewed endorsement of its finalisation is seen by regional observers as a significant step toward easing maritime tensions and reinforcing ASEAN unity amid great-power rivalry in the Indo-Pacific. - October 31, 2025