Marcos Jr: Freedom of navigation vital for commerce

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. emphasized the critical importance of freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and the Arabian Sea to ensure the uninterrupted flow of regional and international commerce.

Speaking at the 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit, Marcos stated that these seas contain vital seabeds crucial for commerce and that maintaining unimpeded trade necessitates adherence to international law, specifically the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

He also highlighted the need for environmental protection within these marine areas through compliance with established international regulations.

Marcos Jr. also called for Southeast Asian countries to accelerate the adoption of a legally binding code of conduct in the South China Sea, underscoring the need for peaceful resolution of disputes and regional stability.

Marcos affirmed the Philippines' commitment to fostering peace, security, and prosperity between the ASEAN and GCC regions.

He also commended the GCC and its member states for their growing efforts in peacemaking and peacebuilding amidst global challenges.