The Stratbase Institute reported that 18 governments have explicitly recognized the 2016 Arbitral Award on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as legally binding, with additional support from 17 countries.

This marks a significant increase in international backing for the Philippines' position, as nations like France, South Korea, and Norway have strengthened their stances.Meanwhile, China and eight other countries have rejected the ruling, calling it 'illegal, null, and void.

' The institute highlighted the growing global resolve amid tensions in the region, citing the participation of 26 foreign missions at a forum commemorating the 10th anniversary of the ruling.

Key participants included ambassadors from Australia, Canada, the EU, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, all of whom affirmed their support for the arbitral decision.

The expanding recognition has led to initiatives like Australia's defense cooperation agreement with the Philippines and the UK's Visiting Forces Agreement negotiations.The ruling is seen as a cornerstone for peaceful dispute resolution and regional stability.