Regarding maritime security and cooperation, the leaders underscored the importance of maintaining peace, stability and prosperity in the region and promoting martime security and safety, freedom of navitation, unimpeded commerce, exercise of self-restraint and resolution of disputes by peaceful means in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

They resolved to enhance maritime security and safety cooperation, such as information sharing and capacity building including through the ASEAN regional forum and expanded ASEAN maritime forum.

The ASEAN leaders also appreciated Japan’s initiatives and active participation in the efforts to fostering the dialogue with ASEAN member countries on maritime issues. Japan welcopmed the official consultations between ASEAN and China on the Code of Conduct in the East Sea.

For free and safe maritime navigation and aviation, in recognizing the benefits of enhanced connectivity between ASEAN and Japan, the leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation on air and maritime linakges.

The leaders also agreed to enhance cooperation in ensuring the freedom of overflight and civil aviation safety in accordance with the universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS, and the relevant standards and recommended practices by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

In terms of Japan’s proactive contribution to peace, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment for the maintenance of peace, stability and prosperity in the region. In this regard, PM Shinzo Abe elaborated his security policy to proactively contribute even further to the peace and stability of the region and the international community from the perspective of “Proactive Contribution to Peace” based on Japan’s long-standing principle of international cooperation.

The ASEAN leaders looked forward to Japan’s efforts in contributing constructively to peace, stabilioty and development in the region.