Asean, China agree on draft framework

BEIJING: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and China took a step toward easing tensions in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), agreeing on Thursday to a framework or outline for a “code of conduct” to prevent incidents in the disputed waters.

The framework, which was agreed upon during a meeting of senior officials from Asean and China in the southwestern Chinese province of Guizhou, sets the parameters for a final, more detailed agreement yet to come.