(VOVworld) - ASEAN and China need a code of conduct for the South China Sea to avoid conflict and bolster stability in the region, Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono told the First Strategic Review Forum in Jakarta on Tuesday.

He said “Short of a comprehensive resolution, the claimants must do their best to manage and contain any dispute to make sure it does not escalate, or worse, lead to the outbreak of military clashes”. Under the theme “Peace and Reconciliation in Southeast Asia”, President Bambang’s speech focused on the importance of conciliation to Indonesia, the region, and the world. He added that any conflict can be resolved if the parties involved show restraint and are determined to use sound leadership and trust building measures.