The Philippines and Vietnam have taken significant steps to bolster their collaboration in the contested South China Sea. During Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s state visit to Hanoi, both nations signed two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) focused on maritime cooperation.
These agreements aim to prevent untoward incidents in the region and enhance cooperation between the respective coast guards, reflecting Manila's strategic efforts to align with Vietnam against increasing tensions with the Chinese mainland.
Experts believe that integrating Vietnam into 'ASEAN minilateral' cooperation could play a pivotal role in managing disputes through the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, steering clear of what some perceive as 'Beijing's doctrines.'
However, Manila's attempts to form a united front face challenges. Departing from the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) framework could complicate efforts, especially as most regional countries prefer diplomatic resolutions over hostile tactics against the Chinese mainland.
As negotiations for the Code of Conduct progress, the recent pacts between Manila and Hanoi signal the Philippines' ongoing efforts to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape of the South China Sea.
Reference(s):
Failure of Manila's anti-China bloc in S. China Sea is determined
cgtn.com
