‘Negotiation fatigue’ risks stalling South China Sea code of conduct progress

Efforts to finalise the code between Asean and China this year are hampered to a large extent by differences between Manila and Beijing

Any consensus on the code is likely to be broad and symbolic, and while “negotiation fatigue” could set in, it is still important to keep dialogue flowing, according to analysts.

During a media briefing at the 59th Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting last Thursday, Lazaro said all parties intended to finish the code “within the year”.

In a joint communique issued on the same day, Asean ministers said they were pleased with the “sustained positive momentum” in talks and welcomed the “significant progress achieved”.

“We looked forward to continued efforts in endeavouring to conclude the negotiation of an effective and substantive COC that is in accordance with international law,” the document stated.