South China Sea

China always believes the disputes in the South China Sea should be properly resolved through negotiations between the parties to the disputes on the basis of facts and in accordance with the basic norms governing international relations. Before the final settlement of the disputes, the parties concerned may put aside their disputes and engage in joint development. China and the relevant countries have reached important agreements on peacefully resolving disputes and pushing forward practical cooperation in the South China Sea. China and ASEAN countries have reached agreements on the guidelines on the implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.