(VOVworld) - There is a firm basis for ASEAN helping to settle east Sea disputes involving some of its member states, Singaporean Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen told reporters on the occasion of Singapore Armed Forces Day on July 1.

Lieutenant-General Phuong Minh Hoa (L) and Singaporean Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen. (File Photo: Le Hai – VNA’s correspondent in Singapore)

He said the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea signed by ASEAN and China in 2002 details ways to approach problems in the area and means that ASEAN is “already involved”.

Anticipating the upcoming ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague on the lawsuit the Philippines brought against China’s claims in the East Sea, he warned that the ruling may escalate actions and reactions, so all concerned parties should be watchful.

Newly-elected Filipino President Rodrigo Duterte said on Thursday that he “will not really taunt or flaunt it” if the ruling is in favor of the Philippines.