Indonesia Takes Leadership in South China Sea Code of Conduct Negotiations
Indonesia's Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea proposal has gained unanimous agreement from all ASEAN member countries and China.
Indonesian Military Chief, Admiral Yudo Margono (L) meets with Chief of Malaysian Defense Forces, General Tan Sri Affendi Buang (C) during Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Chief of Defence Forces Meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia on June 07, 2023. Photo by Anadolu Images.
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ndonesia, under its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2023, has spearheaded a crucial initiative to accelerate the negotiations for a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, gaining unanimous agreement from all ASEAN member countries and China. The groundbreaking move was announced by Rolliansyah Soemirat, the Director for ASEAN Political and Security Cooperation, during a press conference in Jakarta on January 9, 2024.
In a bid to expedite the COC negotiations, Indonesia’s initiative introduces a set of comprehensive guidelines, marking a historic moment as the first-ever practical guidelines for the COC. These guidelines aim not only to hasten the negotiation process but also to provide substantive material ensuring the effectiveness and practicality of the COC.
Addressing the complexity of the COC elements, Rolliansyah emphasized the need for a breakthrough to expedite the negotiations successfully. The guidelines put forth by Indonesia encapsulate the aspirations of ASEAN and China to conclude the COC within three years, fostering an environment of intensive discussions on pending issues and proposing working methods to streamline the negotiation process.
A code of conduct reflecting international norms
“The COC is anticipated to be a code of conduct reflecting international norms, principles, and rules aligned with international law, particularly UNCLOS. The ultimate goal is to establish a stable, safe, and peaceful South China Sea,” stated Rolliansyah.
During its ASEAN Chairmanship, Indonesia has achieved significant progress in the COC negotiations, reaching the second reading or discussions on the second round. This positive development is considered a crucial momentum towards the accelerated agreement on the code of ethics.
Indonesia previously hosted COC negotiations between ASEAN and China in March, setting the stage for ongoing discussions. As part of its commitment to the COC process, Indonesia plans to host the next round of negotiations at the end of 2024, contributing further to the acceleration of this significant diplomatic effort.
Promoting practical maritime cooperation
In addition to the COC negotiations, Indonesia affirms its commitment to promoting practical maritime cooperation between ASEAN and China in the South China Sea. The objective is to enhance mutual trust, thereby supporting and preserving peace, security, and stability in the region.
The international community has welcomed Indonesia’s proactive stance on expediting the South China Sea COC negotiations. The successful agreement on guidelines reflects the collaborative efforts of ASEAN member states and China, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in addressing complex geopolitical challenges.
As Indonesia takes the lead in fostering dialogue and cooperation, the eyes of the international community remain on the South China Sea, where overlapping territorial claims have long been a source of tension. Indonesia’s role as a mediator and facilitator in the COC negotiations underscores its commitment to regional stability and adherence to international norms.
Sources: The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Reuters
