States Supporting the Arbitration Award of 12 July 2016
Australia
"On the 7th anniversary of the SCS arbitral award, Australia reaffirms its support for the decision, which is final and binding on both China and the Philippines. We continue to call for respect for international law, particularly #UNCLOS, for an open, stable & prosperous region."
“The Australian Government has consistently called on the parties to the arbitration to abide by the Tribunal’s decision, which is final and binding on both China and the Philippines.
“Our position is guided by our principled support for international law and UNCLOS.
“Australia will continue to support the right of all countries to seek to resolve disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS.”
“We also note that the Arbitral Tribunal ruling on the South China Sea of July 2016 remains legally binding on both parties.
“It is in our interests to use our influence persistently in our region to direct states towards an international legal system that protects their rights and facilitates the peaceful settlement of disputes free from coercion."
“Today the Arbitral Tribunal released its final decision on the Philippines' South China Sea arbitration case.
“The Australian Government calls on the Philippines and China to abide by the ruling, which is final and binding on both parties.
“The Tribunal in the Philippines' arbitration case was established in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“Australia supports the right of all countries to seek to resolve disputes peacefully in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS."
Canada
“On the anniversary of the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in the matter of the South China Sea, Canada reiterates that this decision is final, binding on the parties, and provides a vital foundation for the peaceful resolution of competing maritime claims in the region, consistent with international law.
"...We stand with the Philippines and all Association Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states in upholding international law as the essential basis for safe and responsible maritime activity."
“On the fifth anniversary [12 July 2021] of the decision by the tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in the matter of the South China Sea Arbitration, Canada reiterates the need for all involved parties to comply with it. This decision is a significant milestone and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes in the South China Sea.”
“On July 12, 2016, the tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea rendered a decision in the matter of the South China Sea Arbitration, which is binding on the parties to it.
“Whether one agrees or not with the ruling, Canada believes that the parties should comply with it. All parties should seize this opportunity as a stepping stone to renewed efforts to peacefully manage and resolve their disputes, in accordance with international law.”
India
". . . [I]n the Joint Statement, we [India-Philippines] did recognize the need for the adherence in international law and called for the Arbitral Award to be respected in that context."
Defending the West Philippne Sea, the Indo-Pcific and the Rules-Based Order," 12 July 2023
“[External Affairs Minister of India] EAM and [Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines] SFA held wide-ranging and substantive discussions on regional and international issues of mutual concern. They underlined that both countries have a shared interest in a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. They underlined the need for peaceful settlement of disputes and for adherence to international law, especially the UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea in this regard.”
“India has noted the Award of the Arbitral Tribunal constituted under Annex VII of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea (UNCLOS) in the matter concerning the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China.
“India supports freedom of navigation and over flight, and unimpeded commerce, based on the principles of international law, as reflected notably in the UNCLOS. India believes that States should resolve disputes through peaceful means without threat or use of force and exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that could complicate or escalate disputes affecting peace and stability.
“Sea lanes of communication passing through the South China Sea are critical for peace, stability, prosperity and development. As a State Party to the UNCLOS, India urges all parties to show utmost respect for the UNCLOS, which establishes the international legal order of the seas and oceans.”
Japan
"Today, seven years have passed since the issuance of the Arbitral Tribunal’s award as to the disputes between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China regarding the South China Sea. As the Tribunal’s award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the parties to this case, the Philippines and China, are required to comply with the award. The claim by China that it will not accept the award is against the principle of peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, in particular UNCLOS, and undermines the rule of law as a fundamental value of the international community. Japan strongly hopes that the parties’ compliance with the award will lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea."
“Today, on July 12, 2021, five years have passed since the issuance of the Arbitral Tribunal’s award as to the disputes between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China regarding the South China Sea. As the Tribunal’s award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the parties to this case, the Philippines and China, are required to comply with the award. The claim by China that it will not accept the award is against the principle of peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, in particular UNCLOS, and undermines the rule of law as a fundamental value of the international community. Japan strongly hopes that the parties’ compliance with the award will lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea.”
“Today, the Arbitral Tribunal rendered the final award in the arbitral proceedings instituted by the Government of the Republic of the Philippines under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as to the disputes between the Philippines and China regarding the South China Sea.
“As the Tribunal’s award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of UNCLOS, the parties to this case are required to comply with the award. Japan strongly expects that the parties’ compliance with this award will eventually lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea.”
France
"There is simply no alternative to the strict adherence to the rule of law. In that regard, through 2016 Award, the Philippines upheld the highest standards. This historical milestone paves the way for the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea."
“Following the recent incidents in the South China Sea, we express our concern and call for respect for International law and the resolution of disputes through dialogue.
“We are resolutely opposed to any use of force or threat to do so. We recall, in this regard, the Arbitration award rendered under UNCLOS on the 12th of July 2016."
“Today, we commemorate the 6th year of the #SouthChinaSea Arbitral Ruling.
“In line with its #IndoPacific strategy, [France] remains committed to the rules-based international order in accordance with [international law], particularly #UNCLOS.
“France is opposed to any attempted fait accompli, unilateral change in existing systems, or challenge to international law through the use of force. ”
New Zealand
“There is no legal basis for states to claim 'historic rights' with respect to maritime areas in the South China Sea, as confirmed in the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award (the Arbitral Award).”
“Maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea is vital to the ongoing prosperity of the wider Asia-Pacific region. It is in all parties’ interests to ensure the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is respected.
“We hope that the Tribunal’s ruling can provide a platform for resolving the longstanding and complex issues in the South China Sea and we urge all parties to work towards this end."
Portugal
“I want to underline Portugal’s support for the UNCLOS Arbitration Award to the Philippines. We believe that it is extremely important for this institution, UNCLOS, to be understood . . . ”
South Korea
"Recalling the publicly announced position of each of our countries regarding the dangerous and aggressive behavior supporting unlawful maritime claims that we have recently witnessed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in the South China Sea, we strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the waters of the Indo-Pacific. In particular, we steadfastly oppose the militarization of reclaimed features; the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels; and coercive activities. In addition, we are concerned about illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. We reiterate our firm commitment to international law, including the freedom of navigation and overflight, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The July 2016 award in the South China Sea arbitration sets out the legal basis for the peaceful resolution of maritime conflicts between the parties to that proceeding."
“The Government of the Republic of Korea has consistently held the position that the peace and stability, and the freedom of navigation and overflight should be safeguarded in the South China Sea, one of the world’s major sea lines of communication, and that disputes in the South China Sea should be resolved in accordance with relevant agreements, non-militarization commitments, as well as internationally established norms of conduct.
“The Government of the Republic of Korea takes note of the arbitration award issued on July 12, and hopes, following the award, that the South China Sea disputes will be resolved through peaceful and creative diplomatic efforts.”
United Kingdom
“As provided for in UNCLOS, the Arbitral Tribunal’s decision is final and legally binding on both parties. We call on the Philippines and China to abide by its terms.”
“The UK does not take a position on competing sovereignty claims, but strongly opposes any claims that are not consistent with UNCLOS. Adherence to international law, including UNCLOS, is fundamental to ensuring there continues to be a safe, prosperous and stable South China Sea. The UK will continue to encourage the resolution of disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law."
“As a global leader in marine conservation, and founder of the Global Ocean Alliance, the UK takes the Tribunal’s findings in this respect very seriously. The UK calls upon all States in the region to comply with their obligations to protect and preserve the marine environment.”
United States
"Today marks the seventh anniversary of an Arbitral Tribunal constituted under the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention firmly rejecting the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) expansive South China Sea maritime claims, including any PRC claim to the area determined by the Arbitral Tribunal to be part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, as well as any resources therein. Under the terms of the Convention, this ruling is final and legally binding on the Philippines and the PRC.
We will continue working with allies and partners to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific, one that is at peace and grounded in respect for international law."
“Six years ago, an Arbitral Tribunal constituted under the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention delivered a unanimous decision, which is final and binding on the Philippines and the PRC. In its ruling, the Tribunal firmly rejected the PRC’s expansive South China Sea maritime claims as having no basis in international law. The Tribunal also stated that the PRC has no lawful claim to the areas determined by the Arbitral Tribunal to be part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf.
“The United States reaffirms its July 13, 2020, policy regarding maritime claims in the South China Sea."
“The United States strongly supports the rule of law. We support efforts to resolve territorial and maritime disputes in the South China Sea peacefully, including through arbitration.
“As provided in the Convention, the Tribunal’s decision is final and legally binding on both China and the Philippines. The United States expresses its hope and expectation that both parties will comply with their obligations.”
Japan and New Zealand (Joint Statement)
“[In their joint statement, Japan and New Zealand] reaffirmed the importance of resolving maritime disputes in accordance with international law, particularly UNCLOS. The Prime Ministers reiterated that all claims to maritime zones must be consistent with the relevant provisions of UNCLOS and called on both parties to comply with the July 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea, which is final and legally binding.”
France, Germany, United Kingdom (Joint Note Verbale)
“France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, as States Parties to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), wish to reaffirm their legal position as follows:
- “France, Germany and the United Kingdom also highlight that claims with regard to exercise of 'historic rights' over the South China Sea waters do not comply with international law and UNCLOS provisions and recall that the arbitral award in the Philippines v. China Case dating 12 July 2016 clearly confirms this point.
- France, Germany, and the United Kingdom hold that all maritime claims in the South China Sea should be made and peacefully resolved in accordance with the principles and rules of UNCLOS and the means and procedures for the settlement of disputes provided for in the Convention.”
Group of Seven (G7)
“We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas and reiterate our strong opposition to any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion. We continue opposing China’s dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia in the South China Sea and its repeated obstruction of countries’ high seas freedom of navigation. We express serious concern about the increasing use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Philippine vessels. In this regard, we reaffirm that there is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose China’s militarization, and coercive and intimidation activities in the South China Sea. We re-emphasize the universal and unified character of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and reaffirm UNCLOS’s important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and the seas. We reiterate that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on 12 July 2016 is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings, and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties.”
“We are seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas and reiterate our strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion. We continue to oppose China’s dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia in the South China Sea and its repeated obstruction of countries’ high seas freedom of navigation and we express serious concern about the increasing use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Philippines vessels in this regard. There is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose China’s militarization, coercive and intimidation activities in the South China Sea. We re-emphasize the universal and unified character of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and reaffirm UNCLOS’s important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and the seas. We reiterate that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on July 12, 2016, is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties.”
“There is no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose China’s militarization activities in the region. We emphasize the universal and unified character of the UNCLOS and reaffirm UNCLOS’s important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and the seas. We reiterate that the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on July 12, 2016, is a significant milestone, which is legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings, and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between the parties.”
“We reaffirm our commitment to maintaining a rules-based order in the maritime domain based on the principles of international law, including as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and to the peaceful settlement of maritime disputes through diplomatic and legal means, including arbitration. We remain concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas and strongly opposed to any unilateral actions that could increase tensions. We urge all parties to pursue demilitarization of disputed features.”
Japan, South Korea, United States (Joint Statement)
"Recalling the publicly announced position of each of our countries regarding the dangerous and aggressive behavior supporting unlawful maritime claims that we have recently witnessed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in the South China Sea, we strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the waters of the Indo-Pacific. In particular, we steadfastly oppose the militarization of reclaimed features; the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels; and coercive activities. In addition, we are concerned about illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. We reiterate our firm commitment to international law, including the freedom of navigation and overflight, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The July 2016 award in the South China Sea arbitration sets out the legal basis for the peaceful resolution of maritime conflicts between the parties to that proceeding."