Flags of the European Union in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

“Unilateral actions during the past weeks in the South China Sea have resulted in mounting tensions and a deterioration of the maritime security environment which represents a serious threat to the peaceful economic development of the region,” the statement said.

The EU advised all parties in the region to exercise self-restraint, take concrete steps towards reverting to the status quo ante, refrain from militarising the region and resolve disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, notably the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“The  parties could also seek third-party assistance in the form of mediation or arbitration to facilitate the settlement of their respective claims, if deemed useful,” it added.

The statement said that the EU will continue to fully support regional ASEAN-led processes, in order to further promote a rules-based regional and international order, to consolidate multilateral cooperation, as well as closer cooperation with third parties.

The EU expects to see a swift conclusion of the talks on an effective, substantive and legally binding Code of Conduct in a transparent manner.

The bloc pledges to be committed to the legal order of the seas and oceans based upon international law, maritime security and cooperation, as well as the freedom of navigation and overflight, in the interest of all states.–VNA