Indonesia calls on ASEAN, China to resume COC talks

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi has urged ASEAN and China to soon resume talks on a code of conduct in the East Sea (COC), which can serve as a guide for countries to behave in the sea.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi

Addressing the Special ASEAN-China Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in China’s Chongqing city on June 7, Retno said that the East Sea issue is a big test for the partnership between ASEAN member countries and China.

Indonesia is ready to host a meeting to discuss the COC in the near future, she said, adding that the country also encourages all parties to comply with the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), including exercising restraint.

Retno also mentioned that the developing dynamics of global geopolitics require each country to promote dialogue in resolving differences and disputes.

According to her, it is important to build strategic trust, not conduct behaviours that further reduce mutual trust./.

VNA