China and the Philippines convened the 10th meeting of the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea (BCM) in Xiamen, located in southeast China's Fujian Province, on Thursday, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
The discussions were marked by a candid and constructive exchange of views regarding the current situation in the South China Sea.
Both nations emphasized the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea, recognizing that such stability serves the mutual interests of regional countries, including China and the Philippines. They agreed to enhance maritime dialogue and communication, aiming to properly address and resolve maritime differences and disagreements.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry highlighted that China has lodged formal representations with the Philippines concerning recent infringing and provocative activities at sea, which have heightened maritime disputes between the two countries. China urged the Philippines to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, advocate for resolving differences through dialogue and consultation, jointly manage maritime situations, and work towards steering bilateral relations back on a positive trajectory promptly.
Additionally, both parties consented to continue advancing practical maritime cooperation in areas such as coast guard operations, marine science and technology, environmental protection, and other relevant fields.
The meeting was co-chaired by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong and Undersecretary Maria Theresa P. Lazaro of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines.
Reference(s):
China, the Philippines hold consultation meeting on South China Sea
cgtn.com
