Fourteen countries, including the Philippines, reaffirmed on July 12, 2026, that China's expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea lack legal basis.

The statement, marking the 10th anniversary of the 2016 arbitral award, was signed by Australia, Canada, Estonia, Germany, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, New Zealand, Romania, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The countries emphasized the finality and legality of the tribunal's ruling, which rejected China's 'historic rights' claims under the nine-dash line.

They reiterated support for peaceful dispute resolution through the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), opposing any coercive actions that threaten regional stability.

The statement condemned the use of coast guard, military, and maritime militia forces to intimidate lawful operations, stressing the need for adherence to international law.China's claims, which encompass parts of the West Philippine Sea, remain unacknowledged despite the 2016 ruling.

The reaffirmation underscores global commitment to a rules-based Indo-Pacific, with participants urging dialogue to resolve disputes without escalating tensions.