West Philippine Sea: Beijing, Manila agree to continue talks

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Undersecretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro (L) with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong. | PHOTO: DFA

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and China have agreed to continue discussions on areas of cooperation concerning the West Philippine Sea as top foreign affairs officials of two nations exchanged “frank and candid” views on the recent developments in the disputed waters.

In a statement on Thursday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Undersecretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro  exchanged views with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong on managing the situation in the West Philippine Sea, including the Escoda Shoal.

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The exchange took place during the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism held in Beijing on September 11, 2024.

“Emphasizing that Escoda Shoal is within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Philippines, Undersecretary Lazaro reaffirmed the consistent position of the Philippines and explored ways to lower the tension in the area,” said DFA.

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“Both sides agreed to continue discussions on areas of cooperation, especially on hotline mechanisms, coast guard cooperation, and marine scientific and technological cooperation,” it added.

The DFA noted that the last Bilateral Consultation Mechanism, which led to a common understanding on managing the situation at Ayungin Shoal, was held in Manila in July 2024.