To help advance the region’s shared interests in a free, open, and rules-based maritime order, we are convening The Manila Dialogue on the South China Sea. It is envisioned to be an annual Track 1.5 process focusing on promoting adherence to international law and identifying sound, pragmatic, and actionable policy prescriptions for littoral states surrounding the South China Sea, as well as other interested state and non-state actors.
The inaugural dialogue took place on on November 6-8, 2024 at the Grand Hyatt Manila and gathered some of the most influential foreign policy experts, thought leaders, and academics from throughout Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific.
Delegates debated issues, pitched innovative ideas, and offered recommendations to ensure that the rule of law, not coercion and the use of force, prevails in resolving disputes, thus, safeguarding regional peace and stability.
