Wang also said that if the Philippines misjudges the situation, sticks to its course, or colludes with outside forces to stir up trouble, China will “protect its rights in accordance with the law and respond resolutely.” “I will,” he emphasized.
Mr. Wang’s statement sent two clear messages. First, it served as a warning to the Philippines that any escalation or persistence of provocations in the South China Sea will not be tolerated. China will respond with all its might and take all necessary countermeasures.
The second message is that Beijing will strengthen ties with other claimants and ASEAN members such as Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia, leaving the Philippines to fight alone.
04:30
Philippines sets up ‘Game Changer’ surveillance base on disputed South China Sea island
Philippines sets up ‘Game Changer’ surveillance base on disputed South China Sea island
Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia have all expressed their intention to work with China to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.
It is clear that other claimants have no intention of provoking China in the South China Sea. Instead, both countries are committed to promoting economic cooperation and diplomatic engagement with China, with the aim of promoting economic growth and social stability within their respective territories.
03:47
‘The door on China-US relations will never be closed again’: President Xi Jinping assures US companies
‘The door on China-US relations will never be closed again’: President Xi Jinping assures US companies
Against this background, the Philippines’ aggressive actions in the South China Sea will likely be restrained to some extent by the United States. As Manalo said in a telephone conversation with Wang, he said he wanted to manage the conflict in a way acceptable to both sides to reduce tensions and prevent conflict in the South China Sea.
Recently, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said in an interview with Japanese media that despite U.S. support, maritime disputes with China are “purely a Philippine concern” and that Manila has called it “a Philippine concern.” It’s a problem, and we’re going to fix it.” ourselves”.
00:51
Philippines says Chinese vessels in disputed waters cannot prevent ‘dangerous’ resupply mission
Philippines says Chinese vessels in disputed waters cannot prevent ‘dangerous’ resupply mission
What is noteworthy is that China has not closed the door to dialogue. China could resume talks with the Philippines if it returns to the right track and is willing to jointly manage maritime disputes.
According to the Chinese statement, in response to Mr. Wang’s advice on dialogue, Mr. Manalo will strengthen sincere dialogue with China, give full play to the role of communication mechanism in maritime issues between the two countries, and seek solutions to problems. He said he would like to explore this jointly. . In his brief public statement, Manalo described his conversation with Wang as a “frank and frank exchange.”
The two sides also agreed to hold a meeting of the bilateral consultation mechanism on the South China Sea soon.
Manila’s South China Sea “honor and shame” policy puts Beijing at a disadvantage
Manila’s South China Sea “honor and shame” policy puts Beijing at a disadvantage
The telephone conversation between the two foreign ministers was important in easing tensions, but any improvement in bilateral relations will depend on the outcome of future dialogue between the two countries.
Nian Peng is Director of the Hong Kong Center for Asian Studies (RCAS).