The () welcomed the award, which vindicated most of its claims, and stated that it remained open to negotiate with China. Conversely, () rejected the decision as illegal, null and void and therefore without any binding effect on itself. Other countries, including the (), backed the Philippines and called on China to respect the tribunal’s decision. On the other hand, () supported China’s nonacceptance of the award. ASEAN members issued a joint communiqué reaffirming the need to avoid actions that might escalate tensions in the South China Sea and to seek the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS.