In an attempt to reduce tensions in the South China Sea, China and the Philippines have affirmed their commitment to ongoing discussions aimed at peacefully resolving their differences. The Chinese foreign ministry released a statement on Tuesday night expressing the mutual interest in maintaining peace and stability in the region, emphasizing the common goal shared by both countries and other regional stakeholders.
Highlighting the importance of dialogue and consultation in managing disputes and differences, both parties described their recent meeting as “candid and constructive.” The discussions covered various issues, including the improvement of sea-related communication mechanisms and the facilitation of dialogue between their respective coastguards.
The Chinese delegation urged the Philippines to halt any infringing and provocative actions in the South China Sea and to pursue a diplomatic approach to resolving disputes. This call for the Philippines to “return to the correct path of resolving disputes through dialogue” underscored the Chinese government’s commitment to stabilizing bilateral ties.
Echoing the sentiments of their Chinese counterparts, the Philippine foreign affairs department acknowledged significant progress in developing measures to manage the situation at sea while recognizing the existence of significant differences that still need to be addressed.
The high-level meeting, co-chaired by China’s Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong and Philippine Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro, follows a series of maritime confrontations between the two countries. These incidents have raised concerns about the potential for a broader conflict in the South China Sea, a critical global shipping route, and have drawn condemnation from the United States and its allies.
One such incident occurred on June 17 at Second Thomas Shoal, when Chinese coastguards intercepted a Philippine naval mission to resupply troops stationed on the disputed reef. The confrontation resulted in injuries to eight Philippine sailors, including one who lost a thumb. The following day, the US State Department condemned China’s actions as “escalatory and irresponsible,” reaffirming the United States’ commitment to defending the Philippines under a 1951 treaty.
The meeting on Tuesday included officials from various Philippine government departments, including foreign affairs, defense, natural resources, environment, transport, agriculture, and coastguards, as indicated in the Chinese readout.
The commitment to continued dialogue and diplomatic engagement between China and the Philippines represents a significant step towards de-escalating tensions in the South China Sea. By upholding the principles of peace, stability, and cooperation, both countries are working towards safeguarding the interests of the region and promoting a safe and secure maritime environment for all stakeholders involved.
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