Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Tuesday that the China-Philippines relationship is facing malicious interference at present, urging the Philippines to send rational, unified messages in its policy toward China.
Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks in a phone conversation with Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro.
During the phone call, which was made at Lazaro's request, Wang noted that some Philippine politicians, out of political prejudice and self-interest, have repeatedly attacked and smeared China.
Their actions cross China's red lines, politicize normal economic, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and infringe upon the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese nationals and institutions in the Philippines, he said, adding that such moves are irrational and intolerable, and that the Philippines should restrain such politicians.
Wang emphasized that China's resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity and achieve national reunification remains unwavering, and he urged the Philippines to take real actions to adhere to the one-China policy and exercise caution on the South China Sea issue.
Lazaro said that the Philippines highly values its relationship with China and seeks to develop a stable and predictable bilateral relationship.
She said that as countries globally face challenges in economic and energy sectors, communication between the Philippines and China is beneficial for managing differences, improving bilateral relations and promoting regional peace and stability.
The Philippines remains committed to the one-China policy, a stance that will not change, Lazaro said, adding that her country is also willing to address the South China Sea and other issues with China through dialogue and consultation.
She said that as the rotating chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations this year, the Philippines appreciates and anticipates China's greater role in advancing the ASEAN-China comprehensive strategic partnership for more outcomes.
The two sides agreed to make efforts to eliminate internal and external factors of interference, and oppose any malicious provocations that undermine their diplomatic efforts. Both sides should responsibly manage their differences, stabilize the situation and seek to expand their shared interests, according to the consensus.
China and the Philippines concurred with each other to make efforts to eliminate internal and external factors of interference, and oppose any malicious provocations that undermine their diplomatic efforts. They agreed to responsibly manage their differences, stabilize the situation and seek to expand their shared interests, according to the consensus.
The two sides also exchanged views on the upcoming leaders' meetings on East Asia cooperation to be held in the Philippines, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders' Meeting, scheduled for Nov 18 and 19 in Shenzhen, Guangdong province.
