Full coverage: The South China Sea Issue

Chinese and ASEAN ministers have issued a joint statement reaffirming the efforts of China and the ten ASEAN nations to promote peace and stability in the South China Sea.

The countries agreed to respect freedom of navigation in and overflight above the South China Sea as provided for by recognized principles of international law.

They also agreed to resolve territorial disputes by peaceful means between parties directly concerned. // The statement called for self-restraint in activities including inhabiting presently uninhabited islands and reefs to avoid further complicating the situation.

The statement also permits parties to cooperate on activities such as search and rescue operations, marine scientific research and combating maritime crime.