According to Chinese state media, the presidents of China and the Philippines agreed to strengthen cooperation and discuss maritime differences amicably after their meeting in Beijing on Jan. 4.
“China stands ready to properly deal with maritime affairs with the Philippine side through friendly consultations and resume negotiations on oil and gas exploration,” China Central Television President Xi Jinping quoted as saying.
The two countries plan to expand cooperation in agriculture, infrastructure and culture as well, CCTV reported after Xi’s meeting with Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Marcos’ visit comes amid renewed tensions between nations over territorial claims in the South China Sea.
Bloomberg News reported in December that China is building up several unoccupied land areas, leading China’s foreign ministry to say “the related report came out of nowhere.”
The Philippines later ordered an increased military presence in the contested waters and urged China to “refrain from actions that increase tensions” in the region.
The Southeast Asian nation has also expressed “major concern” about accumulations of Chinese ships closer to its west coast. The US State Department backed Manila’s call for Beijing to respect international law.
Xi told Marcos that the two countries should work to uphold “ASEAN’s central role” in regional development and avoid inter-bloc confrontations, indicating concerns about American influence in the region.
Continue reading: Tensions in Taiwan are raising risks on one of the busiest shipping lanes
Marcos’ administration has ramped up diplomatic protests against China and encouraged closer ties with the US, which were undermined by his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte. In a meeting with Marcos in September, President Joe Biden reiterated his country’s “iron commitment” to defending the Philippines.
Still, the Philippines is seeking loans from Beijing for infrastructure projects, and Marcos has called China the country’s strongest partner in the recovery from the pandemic. He had already expressed his willingness to resume talks with Beijing on oil exploration in the South China Sea. On Jan. 4, he said Chinese tourists are welcome in the Philippines.
