Japan, G-7 brokering joint statement on S. China Sea ruling

Tokyo: Japan is brokering a joint statement on the South China Sea ruling with its counterparts in the Group of Seven (G-7) advanced economies as part of a “proactive diplomacy” drive, though its own reaction to the verdict today may be muted.

Local media reports last week said the G-7 is expected to issue the statement – the group’s third on maritime security since April – to pressure Beijing to respect the decision and follow international law and norms in settling disputes.