Importance of Free and Open International Shipping Lanes

The United States is committed to working with ASEAN member states to uphold freedom of navigation as a cornerstone of regional politics and economic prosperity, stated U.S. Ambassador to ASEAN Kevin Kim. He emphasized that a primary U.S. objective is ensuring international shipping lanes remain free and open for all nations to utilize, a principle crucial for global commerce and the economic development of Southeast Asia.

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One of the main goals of the United States is to ensure that international shipping lanes remain free and open so that all countries can benefit from them.

Regarding the contentious South China Sea, Kim reiterated Washington's dedication to collaborating with ASEAN to maintain regional stability. A key focus is safeguarding the accessibility of international shipping lanes in accordance with international law. "International shipping lanes are very important for global trade as well as the economic growth of Southeast Asia," Kim remarked during a press briefing.

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International shipping lanes are very important for global trade as well as the economic growth of Southeast Asia.

Kim also affirmed respect for the ongoing negotiations between ASEAN and China concerning the development of a Code of Conduct (CoC) in the South China Sea. He acknowledged ASEAN's consensus-building norms in its dealings with China. The ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in January 2026 had previously expressed an aim to finalize an effective and substantive CoC consistent with UNCLOS 1982 by the end of 2026.

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We respect the norms and values of ASEAN, where consensus among member states is part of the process of negotiating with China.

While acknowledging that the CoC negotiations are primarily led by ASEAN and China, Kim assured that the U.S. would maintain communication channels with ASEAN. This engagement aims to ensure that U.S. strategic interests in the region, which are seen as aligned with those of ASEAN nations, are considered throughout the negotiation process. The U.S. intends to voice its perspectives on CoC-related issues during dialogues with ASEAN.

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We will strive to conclude negotiations for an effective and substantive CoC that is consistent with international law, particularly UNCLOS 1982, within 2026.