Manila: The 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea has been declared binding for both the Philippines and China, as several foreign governments expressed their support for the landmark decision on its ninth anniversary. The foreign ministries of Japan, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand emphasized that the ruling was final and offered a foundation for the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes.
According to Philippines News Agency, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Tribunal's award is legally binding on the Philippines and China, as per the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The ministry criticized China's rejection of the award, stating that it opposes the principle of peaceful dispute settlement and undermines international rule of law. Japan reaffirmed that there is no legal basis for China's expansive maritime claims and expressed hope that the involved parties would comply with the award, leading to a peaceful settlement of disputes. Japan also expressed its intent to collaborate with the international community, including ASEAN Member States and the United States, to uphold a free and open international order based on the rule of law.
Global Affairs Canada conveyed Ottawa's unwavering commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. The Canadian foreign affairs department reiterated that the July 12, 2016, decision is legally binding and provides a framework for resolving competing maritime claims peacefully and in accordance with international law. The department criticized China's coercive and dangerous actions against Philippine and Vietnamese vessels, which include the use of water cannons, dangerous maneuvers, ramming, forcible towing, and unlawful boarding, actions that threaten maritime safety and regional peace. Canada called on China to abide by the tribunal's decision and cease actions that escalate tensions.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stressed that parties are obliged to comply with the unanimous, clear, and binding ruling. Australia emphasized that all states ratifying UNCLOS are committed to upholding its principles, including compulsory dispute settlement procedures. Australia called for peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, asserting that adherence to international law is vital for shared prosperity and regional stability.
New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade reiterated its support for the decision, urging parties to respect the ruling on maritime rights in the South China Sea as final and binding. The ministry highlighted that peaceful dispute resolution in line with UNCLOS is crucial for regional stability.
Foreign missions in Manila, including those of Germany, South Korea, France, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the Netherlands, also issued statements supporting the arbitral award both publicly and on social media platforms.