Core Viewpoint - The South China Sea should be framed around peace, stability, and cooperation rather than conflict and confrontation, as emphasized by Wang Yi during the East Asia Cooperation Foreign Ministers' meeting [1][2] Group 1: South China Sea Stability - Regional countries are increasingly confident about the stability of the South China Sea, contrasting with the concerns raised by a few external nations [1] - The South China Sea is described as stable compared to other maritime regions, with no issues regarding freedom of navigation and overflight [1] Group 2: South China Sea Code of Conduct - China and ASEAN countries agree to upgrade the "Code of Conduct in the South China Sea" to ensure it is effective, substantive, and compliant with international law, aiming for completion by next year [2] - There will be increased frequency and acceleration of consultations regarding the Code of Conduct [2] Group 3: Position on Arbitration - The so-called "South China Sea arbitration case" is criticized for serious flaws in fact-finding and legal application, undermining regional peace and order [2] - Questions are raised about the implications of allowing forced arbitration on diplomatic efforts and bilateral negotiations [2] - The arbitration is characterized as a political maneuver that should be disregarded historically [2]

Core Viewpoint - The discussions at the East Asia Cooperation Foreign Ministers' Meeting highlighted a growing consensus among regional countries regarding the South China Sea, emphasizing peace, stability, and cooperation over conflict and tension [1][2] Group 1: South China Sea Stability - Regional countries, particularly in the China-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, expressed increasing confidence in the stability of the South China Sea, contrasting with the more critical stance of some external nations [1] - The narrative surrounding the South China Sea should shift from one of friction and conflict to one of peace and cooperation, which is being actively pursued by China and ASEAN countries [1] Group 2: South China Sea Code of Conduct - China and ASEAN countries agreed to upgrade the "Code of Conduct in the South China Sea" to ensure it is effective, substantive, and compliant with international law, aiming for completion by next year [2] - The negotiation process for the Code of Conduct will intensify, reflecting a commitment to maintaining stability in the South China Sea and minimizing external interference [2] Group 3: South China Sea Arbitration Case - The Chinese position on the so-called "South China Sea arbitration case" was reiterated, highlighting its serious flaws in fact-finding and legal application, and questioning the legitimacy of forced arbitration under the guise of international law [2] - The arbitration case is viewed as a political maneuver that undermines regional peace and stability, and it is suggested that it should be dismissed as a historical anomaly [2]