Motegi Expresses Concern Over South China Sea
Japan's Foreign Minister has expressed concern over China's advances in the South China Sea at the East Asia Summit with his counterparts.
Toshimitsu Motegi took part in the online meeting held late Wednesday, Japan time. The event was attended by foreign ministers of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, as well as Japan, China, the United States, Russia and others.
Motegi said he is concerned that unilateral efforts to change the status quo have continued. He urged concerned nations, including China and the United States, to take constructive action to address the situation.
Regarding China's proposal that a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea be drawn up, Motegi said the code must not infringe on the interests of third countries.
He added it must be consistent with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
