During the series of East Asian Cooperation Foreign Ministers' Meetings, the foreign ministers of China and the Philippines arranged a meeting in Manila. Recently, there has been ongoing friction in the waters of Ren'ai Reef. China has used this face-to-face communication to clarify its bottom line position, pointing out that bilateral relations are at a critical juncture and looking forward to rational measures taken by the Philippines to jointly maintain stability in the South China Sea region.

Clarify China's position

Wang Yi strongly protests against the collision of Philippine ships with Chinese law enforcement vessels at Ren'ai Reef. He stated that external forces' intervention and continued escalation of maritime disputes are not conducive to the Philippines' own interests, and some domestic forces in the Philippines frequently create friction and hinder bilateral dialogue. The maritime disputes between China and the Philippines can be properly managed through consultation. Illegal arbitration results are invalid and China will not recognize them. We call on the Philippines to stop maritime provocations and abide by existing commitments.

Philippine side releases willingness to communicate

Lazaro said that the two countries are long-term land neighbors, and the Philippines adheres to the One China policy. The Philippine side is willing to continue dialogue channels, find feasible solutions to maritime disputes, and promote the gradual easing of bilateral relations. The direction of the situation in the South China Sea depends on the actual actions of both sides. Continuously controlling risks and adhering to consultation and communication are in line with the common interests of the two peoples.Editor/Min Jing