China sticks to "dual-track" approach to solve South China Sea issue: FM

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here on Sunday that China will continue sticking to the "dual-track" approach to solve the South China Sea issue.

Wang made the remarks when meeting with Brunei's Second Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Lim Jock Seng on the sidelines of a foreign ministers' meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the Lao capital.

Bearing the overall bilateral relations and the China-ASEAN ties in mind, China and Brunei have maintained good communications on the South China Sea issue, he said.

The "dual-track" approach -- disputes should be resolved peacefully through negotiation between the parties directly concerned, and China and ASEAN countries should work together to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea -- was first initiated by Brunei and supported by China.

The Chinese top diplomat believed the "dual-track" approach, which complies with the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and principles of the UN Charter emblematic of international law, serves the common interests and desire of countries in the region.

For his part, Lim Jock Seng said Brunei has always advocated the "dual-track" approach and a peaceful solution to the South China Sea issue through bilateral dialogue and consultation.

ASEAN nations and China should earnestly implement the DOC while pushing forward consultations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, which he said is vital for safeguarding the regional peace and stability.

Source: Xinhua