Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday said China is willing to work with ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, to safeguard the peace and stability in the South China Sea.
The negotiation of the South China Sea Code of Conduct follows the principle of equal consultation and reflects the consensus of China and ASEAN countries, Wang said during a meeting with Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi in China's Hainan Province.
Some countries outside the region are trying to stir up trouble and create tension in the region. This is the direct threat to the stability of the South China Sea, Wang said.
Speaking of the vaccine for COVID-19, Wang said the top priority is to promote its research and development.
China has made a clear commitment that after the successful development of China's vaccine, it will become a global public product, and developing countries will be China's priority, said Wang.
Retno is currently on a visit to China from August 19 to 21.
