China to meet ASEAN countries over maritime conduct code

China and ASEAN countries will hold talks to discuss the implementation of the declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in Singapore, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on Monday.

The 22nd China-ASEAN Senior Officials' Consultation will be held in Singapore from April 27 to 28, Hua told reporters during a daily briefing, adding that Vice-Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin and Singaporean permanent secretary for foreign affairs Chee Wee Kiong will co-chair the meeting.

The meeting is to strengthen regional cooperation between China and ASEAN countries, and will also prepare for commemorative activities for the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the China-ASEAN dialogue relations this year, Hua said.

Liu and senior officials from ASEAN countries will hold an in-depth exchange of views on the implementation of the DOC, and promote the consultation process for the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, she added.