Top diplomats of China, Philippines discuss tensions in disputed sea

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) – Amid persisting tensions in the disputed South China Sea, top diplomats of China and the Philippines held phone discussions, noting the “importance” of dialogue in addressing conflicting issues between the two maritime neighbors.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Filipino counterpart Enrique Manalo that “proper management” of the current maritime situation was “a top priority.”

The two maritime neighbors have accused each other of heightening tensions amid overlapping claims in the disputed South China Sea.

It is the first time during the recent ongoing tensions in the disputed waters that the two sides have held a top-level conversation.

“China-Philippines relationship now stands at a crossroads, with its future yet to be decided,” Wang said. "The Philippine side must act with caution."

A statement by China’s Foreign Ministry said the phone call was held Wednesday night at the request of the Philippines.

Beijing and Manila have conflicting claims over Second Thomas Shoal, also known as Ayungin Shoal, Bai Co May and Ren'ai Jiao, which is a submerged reef in the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea.

China has blamed the "illegally grounded” rusting warship, the BRP Sierra Madre, in the disputed waters, for its tensions with the Philippines.

Wang warned if the Philippines side “misjudges the situation, goes its own way or even colludes with ill-intentioned external forces to continue to stir up troubles, China will defend its rights in accordance with law and respond resolutely.”

“The severe difficulties facing China-Philippines relations right now are rooted in the fact that the Philippine side has changed its policy stance so far, reneged on the promises it has made, constantly provoked troubles at sea, and undermined China's legitimate and lawful rights,” said Wang.

He called on Manila to “return to the right path as soon as possible.”

According to China’s statement, Manalo said the Philippines “side is willing to strengthen dialogue with China in good faith, make good use of the bilateral communication mechanism on maritime issues, and jointly seek a solution to the issue.”

“The two sides agreed to hold a meeting of the bilateral consultation mechanism on the South China Sea as soon as possible and actively create favorable conditions for it,” the statement added.

A brief statement by the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs said Manalo had a “frank and candid exchange and ended our call with a clearer understanding of our respective positions on a number of issues.”