Philippines, China reaffirm diplomacy

THE Philippines and China reaffirmed their commitment to diplomacy as they navigate tensions in the South China Sea, following a meeting between Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto and Chinese Ambassador to Manila Jing Quan.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Office of the Executive Secretary said the April 14 meeting covered cooperation on tourism, people-to-people exchanges, direct flights, efforts against transnational crime and broader economic ties, alongside discussions on the energy situation.

The meeting also touched on the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China’s leadership of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation this year, with both sides citing opportunities for regional coordination.

Mr. Jing expressed hope for increased high-level engagements this year to improve ties and “send positive signals,” according to the statement.

The talks come amid continuing friction between Manila and Beijing over competing claims in the South China Sea, where both sides have traded accusations in recent months.

China has criticized Philippine actions in disputed waters and warned against moves it says could escalate tensions, while Manila has repeatedly asserted its sovereign rights under international law.

Beijing continues to assert its sweeping “nine-dash line” claim, which overlaps with the exclusive economic zones of several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines.

An international arbitral tribunal in The Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines in 2016, saying China’s claims had no legal basis under international law, a decision Beijing has rejected.

The meeting took place days before the start of the annual Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) military exercises between the Philippines and the US, scheduled from April 20 to May 8.

This year’s drills are expected to involve more than 17,000 troops and expand into a broader multinational exercise, with participation from Japan, Australia, Canada, France and New Zealand. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana