Talks on South China Sea code of conduct in positive direction - Minister

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman said today negotiations for the establishment of a code of conduct (COC) in the South China Sea were heading in a positive direction and expressed the hope that the COC would be ready within this year.

He said this was in light of China's intention to fast-track consultations on developing the framework of the COC with the parties involved, particularly ASEAN member nations.

"China also wants the COC, even though it is not legally binding. But it is the only method that we can use to maintain security and order in our region," he told reporters after presenting his keynote address at the Toastmasters D87 ''Stand Out, Speak Up'' Conference here today.

Anifah was asked by reporters on the development of the COC consultations.

The issue concerning the South China Sea lately became a regional and international issue for those with common interests such as the developments in the South China Sea, terrorism and extremism, maritime security and other security issues.

-- BERNAMA