Diplomacy can help resolve sea disputes

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2015 Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan province on March 28, President Xi Jinping reiterated that, "all of us must oppose interference in other countries' internal affairs and reject attempts to destabilize the region out of selfish motives". His remarks was echoed by Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who pledged that Beijing would follow the dual-track approach to solve disputes in the South China Sea.

According to the approach, agreed to by China and most members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations last November, specific disputes should be resolved through negotiations and consultations between relevant countries based on international law and respect for historical facts, while peace and stability in the South China Sea should be jointly maintained by China and ASEAN countries.

The dual-track approach, crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea and its surrounding areas, represents Beijing's consistent maritime policy and suits most ASEAN member states which seek cooperation and development as well. Accordingly, its implementation should be the priority for all sides locked in maritime disputes.