ASEAN, China fail to conclude the South China Sea agreement, but hopes for completion by year-end

ASEAN and China failed to reach a consensus on the two-decade-old negotiation for a regional code of conduct in the South China Sea despite frequent meetings this year.

ASEAN state leaders and Chinese Premier of State Council Li Qiang posing during the 27th ASEAN-China Summit in Laos last October 10, 2024. Official handout.

Anna Mogato | November 13, 2026

MANILA – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China failed to reach a consensus on the two-decade-old negotiation for a regional code of conduct in…