“All parties expect to conclude the consultations within this year,” Wang said. “China has the confidence and determination to work with all parties to overcome disturbances, build consensus despite differences and reach agreement as soon as possible.”

Beijing’s top diplomat added that the code could provide effective “golden rules” for all sides to manage differences, improve trust and promote cooperation.

Beijing claims sovereignty over almost all the islands and rock features in the South China Sea and in their adjacent waters. It is locked in disputes with rival claimants including the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei.

The framework has been under negotiation since the early 2000s and long been seen by countries in the region as vital to managing tensions in the strategically important waters.