PARIS, France, Sept. 18 (PNA) — The Philippines and France have agreed on the peaceful settlement of the disputes in the South China Sea in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
President Benigno S. Aquino III and French President François Hollande discussed peace and security in the region, particularly the increasing tension in the South China Sea, during a bilateral meeting held at the Elyseé Palace.
“As President, I believe that with these concerns come the necessity for all countries in the region to commit to the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, or UNCLOS. This is the path my nation has chosen to take,” President Aquino said.
In a joint statement, the two leaders expressed their opposition to any acquisition or claim — either by coercion or force — of any or all territory of a state by another state, in violation of international law, especially the charter of the United Nations.
“Both leaders underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia and promoting maritime security, freedom of navigation and the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea,” the joint statement read.
President Aquino and President Hollande also emphasized the importance of the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, as well as the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea in fostering peace and stability in the region.
Meanwhile, President Aquino and French Prime Minister Manuel Valls also met to discuss issues involving the Filipino community in France and developments in the Philippine economy on Wednesday at the Hotel Matignon in Paris. (PNA)