(VOVworld) – The 13th annual Shangri La Dialogue closed in Singapore on Sunday after three-day working sessions on issues related to security in the Asia-Pacific region. A majority present voiced concern over tensions in the East Sea since China illegally deployed its oil rig Haiyang – 981 in Vietnam’s continental shelf and exclusive economic zone in early May.
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| Vietnamese Defence Minister Gen. Phung Quang Thanh attending the Shangri-La Dialogue. (Photo:VNA) |
During the fourth plenary session on Sunday, themed “Major Powers’ Perspectives on Peace and Security in the Asia-Pacific”, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the People’s Liberation Army of China Wang Guanzhong said China supports cooperation, dialogue, and improved strategic trust among countries. Wang promised that China will resolve territorial and sovereignty disputes according to maritime rights. He added that China will continue its cooperation with the US, Russia, India, and other nations to maintain peace and promote prosperity in the region. Russian Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov said Russia’s main goal is to maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, which has a vital significance for the sustainable economic development and prosperity of all nations. Asked about the “nine-dash” line that demarcates China’s claims in the East Sea, Wang said China is preparing for direct negotiations with each country concerned.
At the fifth session, also on Sunday, themed “Ensuring Agile Conflict Management in the Asia Pacific”, French Defense Minister Jean Yves Le Drian expressed hope for the early completion of the Code of Conduct in the East Sea, which he said is the only deterrent to rows and will help to create an environment of peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. Singaporean Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen noted that it is possible to mitigate conflicts by actively establishing relations in a strong multilateral framework in order to build trust via cooperation and consensus.