Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Hor Namhong has called on outsiders to avoid “provocation” over the South China Sea issue, saying that any disputes should be peacefully settled by parties directly concerned.
Noting that through many years of serious negotiations, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China are now working on the draft of the Code of Conduct (COC) to boost cooperation between parties directly concerned to deal with the relevant disputes, Namhong told Xinhua that countries outside the region should encourage ASEAN and China to reach the COC.
While ASEAN and China are in the process of settling their difference directly and peacefully through the COC, outside powers should contribute to peace in the region and avoid inflaming the disputes, he said.
In full: http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-10/04/c_139418502.htm
