Malaysia, Phl agree on peaceful settlement of disputes in South China Sea

PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia (Xinhua) - President Benigno Aquino III said here today that Malaysia and the Philippines agreed on the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea in accordance with the rule of law and United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

He made the remarks at a joint press conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, adding that both countries believed their potential to prosper could only be fully realized in the international context where the rule of law was upheld.

"We believe that adherence to the rule of law, positive engagement and sincere dialogue are fundamental if we are to build a truly prosperous and peaceful Southeast Asia, where no one is left behind," he said.

Aquino said the two leaders reviewed many aspects of defense relations, particularly the educational and training exchanges between the armed forces and defense officials, as well as continued joint training activities and intelligence exchange.

He said both countries would be examining the progress of several initiatives and cooperation during the 8th Philippines- Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting, which would take place this year.

Aquino is on a two-day visit to Malaysia, which is his first since he took office as the Philippine President in 2010.