Brunei states commitment to peace in South China Sea: official

Brunei Darussalam is fully committed to ensuring maritime security in the South China Sea, including rights to freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as "unimpeded lawful commerce"as prescribed under international law, local press reported on Friday.

In an exclusive interview with the Brunei Times, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Hj Erywan said the sultanate urged restraint with regards to any activity that could escalate tensions in the disputed waters, where China has overlapping territorial claims with Brunei, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia.

"Brunei Darussalam views the South China Sea as a very important area for maintaining peace, stability and prosperity, especially as much of its trade passes through the South China Sea," he was quoted as saying.

"We are fully committed to ensuring the peaceful resolution of disputes, without resorting to threats or use of force in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)."

The deputy minister added that Brunei urged all parties to commit to the swift conclusion of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC), a legally binding agreement that would govern how claimants behave in the sea.

Claimants signed a non-binding agreement in 2002 dubbed the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) promising to refrain from the use of force or activities that would escalate tensions.

"Brunei also remains committed to building confidence and promoting cooperation to address common challenges in maritime issues," the deputy minister said. Endit