China and the Philippines on Thursday (Jan 18) agreed to enhance maritime communication and resolve conflicts through friendly discussions on the South China Sea issue.
Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Nong Rong and Philippine Vice Foreign Minister Theresa Lazaro discussed the situation at the eighth meeting of the bilateral consultation mechanism on the South China Sea in Shanghai.
The two sides agreed to further improve sea-related communication mechanisms, continue to properly manage sea-related conflicts and differences through friendly consultations and deal with maritime emergencies, according to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement.
The two officials believe “maintaining communication and dialog is important for maintaining maritime peace and stability,” according to the ministry.
Recent confrontations in the waters of the South China Sea have heightened tensions between the two countries.
Allegations of provocation, including China’s alleged ramming of a ship carrying the Philippine armed forces chief of staff last month, have worsened relations over the economically strategic waterway.
Beijing asserts sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, which includes parts of the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.