Kerry calls on China, Philippines to abide by tribunal ruling on South China Sea

[NEW DELHI] US Secretary of State John Kerry on Wednesday called on China and the Philippines to abide by an international tribunal's decision on the disputed South China Sea region.

"This is a crucial opportunity to uphold the existing rules-based international order, show respect for international law, and support regional stability and prosperity," Mr Kerry said in an address to students on a two-day visit to New Delhi.

The remarks came ahead of a G20 summit in China on Sept 4 and 5 that is to be attended by global leaders.

Beijing wants to use the meeting in the tourist hub of Hangzhou to lay out a broad strategy for global growth, but talks are likely to be overshadowed by arguments over everything from territorial disputes to protectionism, diplomats said.

REUTERS