Asean pushes China for speedier talks on South China Sea
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Bandar Seri Begawan - South-East Asian leaders on Wednesday pushed China for faster progress in talks to ease tensions over regional maritime disputes that have overshadowed discussions on economic integration.
The leaders of the 10-member Association of South-East Asian Nations (Asean) raised concerns about conflicts in the South China Sea and sought more progress in the negotiations for a code of conduct with China, which claims nearly the entire area.
Philippine President Benigno Aquino said a quick end to the negotiations with China would support Manila's efforts to pursue arbitration with the United Nations to clarify maritime entitlements.
"The Philippines looks forward to the early conclusion of a code of conduct," he told the summit.//DPA
