ASEAN leaders renew call for peaceful resolution of disputes in South China Sea

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 11) — Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Thursday reiterated their call for a "peaceful resolution" of disputes in the South China Sea as they concluded their summit in Indonesia.

ASEAN member-states said tensions in the disputed waters must be resolved in accordance with international law.

"We further reaffirmed the need to pursue peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with the universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea)," their statement read.

The leaders also said concerns in the South China Sea were raised — including "land reclamations and serious incidents" that "eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions, and may undermine peace, security, and stability in the region."

They stressed the need to "enhance mutual trust and confidence" and "exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities" that may further escalate tensions.

China's sweeping claims in the South China Sea overlap with those of several ASEAN members—including the Philippines.