TOKYO, Japan, June 3 (PNA) — President Benigno S. Aquino III said Wednesday he believes regional stability must be maintained to attain continued economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
In his message during the Nikkei 21st International Conference on the Future of Asia, held at the Hotel Okura here, the president said maintaining an open sea lane in the South China Sea, which facilitates about 40 percent of global trade, is very important to regional growth.
He said Japan has been steadfast in demonstrating its solidarity with the Philippines as it advocates freedom of navigation and the rule of law in the face of China’s unlawful territorial claim.
“We are united in the belief that the continued growth of Asia necessitates an environment where freedom of navigation is uninterrupted, and where the rule of law is respected by all, with no exception,” President Aquino said.
He noted that all parties have expressed their desire to resolve the South China Sea issue through peaceful means under international law.
The Philippines, in particular, has pursued arbitration to clarify maritime entitlements, and has pushed for the expeditious conclusion of a legally binding ASEAN Code of Conduct, he added.
The President also thanked Japan for supporting the Philippines’ peaceful, lawful, and principled approach in resolving the dispute.
He said that his current state visit to Japan solidifies the country’s commitment with its friendship with the regional ally.
The President’s four-day state visit here is his sixth trip to the Asian neighbor. (PNA)