The dispute over the South China Sea has been a major issue in several countries that declare the same right to the territory. President Xi is keen on firmly safeguarding the disputed area but is willing to peacefully resolve all maritime issues with other states.
President Xi Jinping said in a conference that China is always committed to peace and stability in the South China Sea. He added that while his country is protecting its sovereignty, rights, and interest, it is very much willing to peacefully solve claims through friendly consultation and dialogues with countries that are mainly involved with the issue.
As reported by the South China Morning Post, Beijing is keen to approach nations in Europe and Africa in order to consolidate its diplomatic base ahead of the ruling made by the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague. This was due to the case that was filed by the Philippines which China believes the court has no jurisdiction.
According to IB Times, tensions have been increasing in the South China Sea due to adjacent countries' claims over the area. Aerial and naval patrols have also been made by Washington in the region which added more tension to the issue. Beijing believes that the mineral-rich South China Sea in entirety but the region, along with the chain of islands, has overlapping claims from several nations which include Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the Philippines.
President Xi said through the CICA, which mainly has 26 members and was formed based on the proposal by Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev in order to form inter-government consultations, China will do its best to Work with Southeast Asian nations in order to make the South China Sea a region of peace, friendship and cooperation as per the Indian Express.
Xi reassures all other Asian nations that it will maintain a peaceful foreign policy in order to gain a peaceful path to development. China also wants to maintain an international order with purpose and principles under the UN Charter core. It hopes this will promote new international relationship which is anchored on cooperation, reciprocity and commitment in building a common place for mankind.
