JAKARTA--The Indonesian government has welcomed steps taken by the governments of China and the Philippines to reduce tensions in the South China Sea.

"The reported reassignment of their vessels from the area was a positive step towards reducing tensions by both countries," Indonesian Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa said in press release issued here on Wednesday (6/20/2012).

Marty noted that the positive development is in line with Indonesian efforts to encourage both countries to refrain from further escalation of tensions and, instead, to promote peaceful settlement by diplomatic means.

Also, the Indonesian government reiterated its hope to maintain a positive momentum in the implementation of the China-Asean Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, including the identification of the elements of a code of conduct in the South China Sea.