The push for stricter compliance with the rule of law in the South China Sea has gained greater momentum with the issuance of a joint declaration by Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) against aggressive acts in disputed waters, a Manila-based think tank said yesterday. In their joint statement, leaders of ASEAN and Australia reaffirmed the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, stability, maritime safety and security, freedom of navigation and overflight in the region. “The declaration has raised the level of regional cooperation amidst a changing geopolitical environment where the Philippines is a major stakeholder,” said Dindo Manhit, president of Stratbase ADR Institute.

Lee-Brago, P. (2018, March 23). Asean, Australia issue joint declaration on sea row. The Philippine Star, p. 10.