East Sea issue remains regional challenge

 At the event, defence department officials of ASEAN member countries and the US, Russia, Japan, South Korea, China, India, New Zealand and Australia discussed recent security issues in the world, including the East Sea.

At the meeting, many delegates said that the recent building of artificial islands in the East Sea has altered the status quo, and that China’s militarisation in the East Sea has raised serious concerns.

Major General Vu Tien Trong, head of Institute for International Defence Relations said: "There are currently activities that disrespect international laws and the spirit of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), which may lead to the militarisation of the newly accreted islands in the East Sea. Countries are expressing concerns about the situation, and hope that the involved parties solve their disputes using peaceful measures, and that they respect the status quo to ensure peace and stability in the East Sea".

Apart from the East Sea issue, delegates also discussed terrorism and nuclear security on the Korean peninsula. A new partnership on internet security was also established at the event, as proposed by the Philippines. Delegations suggested that the ASEAN Defence Senior Officials Meeting-Plus should be held annually, instead of once every two years at present.