PH and China to Hold Direct Talks on South China Sea
The Philippines and China will hold direct talks on the maritime dispute on May.
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs invited the officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to start discussions on a bilateral consultation mechanism on the South China Sea.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hua Chunying said the Philippine and China agreed during the 20th round of Sino-Philippine diplomatic consultation.
According to Hua, Beijing is willing to further strengthen communication and dialogue with the Philippine’s side to properly manage differences, enhance maritime cooperation and create a favorable atmosphere for practical cooperation between the two sides and the healthy and steady growth of Sino-Philippine relations.
This high level visit is part of the agreement reached last February when china and the Philippines held the inaugural meeting of China-Philippines joint coast guard committee for maritime cooperation.
“The two sides are communicating on the specifics of relevant matters,” said Hua. “We believe that cooperation between the two coast guards will help deepen mutual trust and friendship between China and the Philippines and give impetus for the healthy and steady growth of bilateral relations.”
