• Vietnamese FM calls for regional forums’ contributions

Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh was speaking during talks with his Indonesian counterpart Marty Natalegawa in Hanoi on July 18.

The two ministers discussed ASEAN-related issues, including the East Sea, and agreed that given the current context, it is necessary to consolidate and strengthen the group’s central role in the region.

They also agreed that the East Sea is a common interest of ASEAN and the region as a whole.

Minister Minh said he supports the Indonesian FM’s initiative to bring into full play the central role of ASEAN in the East Sea issue as well as the proposal on six fundamental principles on the East Sea. It stresses the respect and full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), enhancement of the implementation of Principles guiding the implementation of the DOC, the building of the Code of Conduct soon, the respect of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and peaceful settlement of disputes on the basis of all aforementioned laws and regulations.

Minister Marty Natalegawa spoke highly of Vietnam’s active role and responsible contributions to ASEAN, including maintaining solidarity and promoting ASEAN’s key role for peace and security in the region.

Both ministers also discussed other issues relating to bilateral relations.

He affirmed six main principles to solve the East Sea issue are basic and said he believes ASEAN will reach a consensus on the issue.