Russia wants peaceful solution to West Philippine Sea dispute in accordance with international law

From Ang Malaya (Oct 20): Russia wants peaceful solution to West Philippine Sea dispute in accordance with international law

Russia also wants a peaceful solution to the West Philippine Sea issue and that it particularly supports the conclusion of a legally-binding Code of Conduct in the West Philippine Sea, this was expressed by Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov to Senate President Franklin M. Drilon. The Senate chief met with the Russian official October 19 in Moscow.

The Senate President noted that Russia is neutral on the issue of claims “but supportive of peaceful settlement in accordance with international law.” He told the Russian Foreign Minister that “both countries can still work together to strengthen regional peace and stability.”

Drilon and Lavrov discussed pressing global and wide range of issues, including recent developments in East Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

He also handed to Lavrov President Benigno S. Aquino III’s invitation to President Vladimir Putin to attend the 23 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Manila next month. Foreign Minister Lavrov expressed deep appreciation for the invitation and said that President Putin is looking forward to visiting Manila next month.

“The Senate President is in Russia on the invitation of Mme. Valentina I. Metvienko, Chairperson of the Federal Council, Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation,” the Senate said in a press statement.

Senate President Drilon is also scheduled to deliver a speech at the Plenary Session of the Federal Council on October 21, 2015. He will be the first Filipino statesman to address the Russian Parliament.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/10/20/14448-russia-wants-peaceful-solution-to-west-philippine-sea-dispute-in-accordance-with-international-law