What concrete steps will Marcos Jr and Widodo take on South China Sea co-operation?

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Marcos Jr and Widodo Agree to Strengthen Defence Ties and Expedite Border Agreements

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Indonesian President Joko Widodo have committed to enhancing defence cooperation and accelerating the revision of border agreements, signalling a move to bolster regional security and collaboration. The leaders met in Manila to discuss mutual interests, including developments in the South China Sea, and to explore avenues for closer cooperation among Southeast Asian nations. While specific details on future actions are limited, their discussions underscored a shared desire to manage regional challenges.
Enhancing Defence and Border Cooperation

The two leaders agreed to strengthen existing defence ties and cooperation, particularly concerning military hardware. This commitment extends to expediting the revision of joint border patrol and crossing agreements. These measures build upon previous bilateral frameworks, such as a 2014 pact that demarcated maritime borders in the Mindanao and Celebes Seas and a 1975 agreement aimed at combating maritime crime.
Pushing for a South China Sea Code of Conduct

Indonesia, through its Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, has expressed readiness to collaborate with other Southeast Asian nations to finalise a long-delayed code of conduct for the South China Sea. This initiative, first proposed by Asean and China in 2002, has seen slow progress. The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in 2016 that China's expansive claims in the waterway lack a legal basis, a decision China has not accepted.
Addressing Regional Cooperation and Energy Ties

Beyond defence and security, Marcos Jr. and Widodo discussed broader strategies for building cooperation among Asean members. The meeting also resulted in the signing of a pact on energy ties, designed to facilitate collaboration between the business sectors of both countries during periods of critical supply constraints for fuels like coal and liquefied natural gas. This move aims to enhance energy security and stability within the region.

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What concrete steps will Marcos Jr and Widodo take on South China Sea co-operation?

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