January 22, 2026
World
World
TOKYO, Jan 22 — Japan has halted the restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant just hours after it began, though the reactor remains “stable,” the operator said.
KUALA LUMPUR, July 12 — ASEAN Foreign Ministers have reaffirmed the bloc’s strong commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea, amid rising concerns over land reclamation activities and serious incidents that could heighten tensions in the disputed waters.
In a Joint Communique issued following the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, held here yesterday, the ministers noted that several members voiced concern over ongoing developments that pose risks to maritime safety, harm the marine environment, and erode regional trust and confidence.
“Some ministers expressed concern over land reclamation, certain activities, and serious incidents in the area that endanger safety, damage the marine ecosystem, erode trust, heighten tensions, and threaten regional peace and security,” the statement said.
The ministers stressed the need for all parties to exercise self-restraint and avoid actions that could further complicate or escalate disputes. They also underscored the importance of resolving issues peacefully in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Emphasising the principle of non-militarisation, the ministers urged full and effective implementation of the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), and called on all sides to adhere to its provisions.
ASEAN also reiterated the significance of preserving peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, recognising its strategic importance as a region of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
The bloc welcomed progress in the ongoing Code of Conduct (COC) negotiations, particularly the completion of the third reading of the Single Draft COC Negotiating Text. They called for continued constructive engagement to reach an early conclusion of a meaningful and effective COC.
Following the Guidelines for Accelerating the Early Conclusion of the COC, the ministers said they anticipate a final agreement aligned with international law, including UNCLOS, and highlighted the importance of fostering a conducive environment for negotiations.
They also urged the adoption of practical steps to reduce tensions and prevent incidents or miscalculations, while underlining the value of preventive diplomacy and confidence-building among all stakeholders.
The ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM) and related events, held from July 8–11 under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 and themed “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, concluded yesterday at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). — Bernama
