Thailand to discuss with Philippines, China on South China Sea dispute

Published on January 25, 2013 by TFP   ·   No Comments

BANGKOK, 25 January 2013 – The Foreign Affairs Ministry has announced that Thailand will discuss with the Philippines and China to find a peaceful way to settle the long-standing South China Sea dispute.

In reference to the Phillippines' move to take the maritime territorial dispute to the UN tribunal, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affiars Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul said all sides should seek a peaceful means to settle the issue, and it was necessary that they negotiate under the ASEAN-China framework in accordance with the 2002 Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretay for Foreign Affiars Sihasak Phuangketkeow said that the Philippines' move did not represent the ASEAN's resolution, but the nation has the rights to do so. He also hoped that the issue would not affect the Sino-ASEAN relationship. As Thailand is set to coordinate with Beijing and Manila over the issue, he will visit both countries, as the move to seek UN's tribunal must be agreed to first by both sides.

(NNT: Nuttaporn Chanchokpong)

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Article source: http://www.thethailandlinks.com/2013/01/27/thailand-to-discuss-with-philippines-china-on-south-china-sea-dispute/