Malaysian Def Minister:
Now we come to the Elephant in the room, namely, the South China Sea. It is an old problem, It involves the dignity and face of the nations involved. If we are not careful, it could certainly escalate into one of the deadliest conflicts of our times, if not our history. Malaysia is more than aware over what is at stake at the South China Sea. That is why we have consistently advocated that diplomacy takes precedent in approaching this dispute. We remain convinced that the Code of Conduct is the best way to govern the waters and urge that consultations be intensified. This is to ensure the expeditious establishment of an effective COC. COC will be a key instrument in ensuring the proper management of these vital sea lanes upon which so much and so many depend. ASEAN mechanism and approaches promote peaceful dialogue. Any peaceful settlement must be acceptable to all nations involved. And that the ASEAN must remain the principal and indeed the only forum for South East Asian nations to pursue a resolution. The dispute resolution between Malaysia and Indonesia is an example where dialogue between nations is vital.
Singapore and Malaysia are also examples which used International Law to settle disputes, which shows that International Law can be used, and must be used.
All parties should avoid actions that will promote tensions.
Essentially Malaysian def min stand is exactly attenued with US over these issues:
- ASEAN will be the only forum for discussion, no bilateral talks.
- Use International Law.
- COC must be established as soon as possible.
- I don't know where but he also told that military activities must not be increased, and that nations will be accountable for their individual actions.
- He also said to sit down and talk, avoid rhetoric.
Point 1,2,3 are totally pro-US.
Point 4 can be interpreted either way, but since China is actually trying to establish a military base, it is more against China.
Point 5 seems to be against US.
@TheTruth @sword1947
UK defence Min says-
- Universal Values being threatened.
- Sovereignty disputes in the SCS and East China Sea, and associated land reclamations are only likely to increase regional tensions.
- None of these problems can be dismissed as merely local difficulties.
- Always speak out against aggression, and causes of instability.
- Provocative Behavior challenges the risk of miscalculation
- Disturbed the scale and speed of Land Reclamation activities
- Refrain from activities
- Settle disputes peacefully, and according to International Law.
- Encourage a binding Code of Conduct
- Stand shoulder to shoulder with United States, and allies, to defend
- Military activity will be expanded in Asia Pacific region, and spend more money in defense.
That's why I say economy is not the only thing.
@AndrewJin
Almost every nation is calling for COC, every nation for a rules based order, every nation against coercion, China made a strategic mistake in stretching itself too wide.
Further words:
- We consider US as the central power as maintaining peace in this region. And value our relationship with US.
Everyone should hear the UK defense min speech, he is the 3rd speaker.
@Raphael @TheTruth @ChineseTiger1986
@cirr @cnleio