A free and open Indo-Pacific that is in accordance with international law has been at the primacy of United States’ diplomatic policy in upholding peace and stability.
US Ambassador Marykay Carlson addressed in a keynote speech during a media conference in Manila how it is like to establish a “free and open, connected, prosperous, resilient, and secure” Indo-Pacific region.
“When we talk about a “free and open Indo–Pacific,” we’re talking about a region that is free from coercion from other countries, open to trade and investment, and governed by international law. This means fishers can earn their livelihoods in traditional fishing grounds without harassment,” Ambassador Carlson said.
“That countries can enjoy a healthy marine ecosystem, free from damage from dredging, overfishing, or land reclamation. It means enjoying a democratic way of life, with a free press and vibrant civil society,” she added.
The US Ambassador expressed support for the international law in governing choices and decision-making of countries, even in the midst of disputes.
“The United States supports the ability for all countries to make their own choices and to raise the next generation with the confidence that peace and prosperity will prevail. When disputes arise, they should be resolved in accordance with international law,” she explained.
“When the United States sees our partners being bullied in their backyard, we speak up. And we encourage others to speak up as well – and they are doing so. The chorus against threats to peace and stability in the South China Sea is growing louder and stronger each day,” she stressed.
The US reaffirmed its strong position in upholding the rule of law and urged PRC to “cease harassment of Philippine vessels lawfully operating in the Philippine exclusive economic zones; to halt its disruption to states’ sovereign rights to explore, utilize, conserve, and manage natural resources in their territories and EEZs; and to end its interference with the freedoms of navigation and overflight of all states lawfully operating in the region.”
Standing up as a committed ally to the Philippines, the US Ambassador reiterated its support in its maritime claims and other issues.
“The 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling firmly rejected the PRC’s 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. We will continue to support the Philippines and other partners on these issues,” she declared.