Fourteen countries and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their support for the 2016 arbitral ruling on the West Philippine Sea, marking the 10th anniversary of the landmark decision.
In separate statements, they emphasized that the ruling remains an important foundation for upholding international law and promoting a rules-based order in the South China Sea. They also called on all parties to resolve maritime disputes peacefully and to refrain from actions that could heighten tensions in the region.
China, however, reiterated its rejection of the arbitral ruling, maintaining that it does not recognize the tribunal's decision. Issued in 2016 under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the ruling found that China's expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea have no legal basis. The statements likewise underscored the importance of preserving peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in one of the world's busiest maritime routes.
