In strengthening diplomatic ties, Malaysia and the Philippines affirmed that they are committed to continuing negotiations on the South China Sea.
This statement was issued after a meeting during the 8th Malaysia-Philippines Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) held on October 16.
This meeting is the first meeting in more than a decade and is to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who met with Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo, emphasized the importance of establishing a "code of ethics and conduct" (COC).
This code is used in a constructive dialogue, which is based on international law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Anwar expressed enthusiasm for expanding cooperation in various sectors, including agriculture, food safety, the digital economy, and the halal industry.
The two leaders acknowledged that the longstanding cooperation has resulted in a platform for a strong trade sector and cultural exchange.
In 2023, the Philippines ranks 17th as Malaysia's largest trading partner globally, with a trade value of RM36.12 billion (about US$7.92 billion).
During the meeting, Anwar stressed Malaysia's determination to continue oil and gas exploration activities in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea, despite opposition from China.
He stated that these activities, especially in the Kasawari gas field, were carried out in areas owned by Malaysia and were not intended to provoke any neighboring countries.
Since this crisis has reached a serious level, both countries pledged to jointly maintain peace and stability in Southeast Asia.
This shows the two countries' commitment to mutual respect and cooperation, and paves the way for future cooperation while addressing territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
