A joint statement on the South China Sea says China’s maritime claims lack a legal basis, with signatories pushing back against what they describe as attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion.

The statement argues that the claims are inconsistent with international law and stresses that freedom of navigation and overflight must be respected. It also calls on parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could escalate tensions at sea.

Signatories further urged constructive engagement to prevent incidents and maintain stability in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime regions, where overlapping claims continue to drive regular disputes and confrontations among regional navies and coast guards.