In 2006, the region took a bolder step with the organization of a bigger EAS Congress 2006 in Haikou City, Hainan Province, PR China, carrying the theme "One Ocean, One People, One Vision". This event introduced yet another innovation in regional collaboration on coastal and ocean governance through the signing of the Haikou Partnership Agreement by the 11 Country Partners and the Partnership Operating Arrangements of 12 non-Country Partners of PEMSEA.

This Partnership Arrangement provides for both government and non-government stakeholders to stand as Partners and serve as complements of each other in the implementation of the SDS-SEA.