China and the Philippines have resumed diplomatic engagement over their long-running South China Sea dispute, holding two days of talks in Quanzhou, Fujian province. According to China’s Foreign Ministry, both sides had a candid and in-depth exchange on bilateral ties as well as regional and international issues. Beijing called on Manila to help create the conditions needed to stabilise and improve relations.
The Philippines, however, maintained a firm stance during the discussions. Its Department of Foreign Affairs said the delegation reiterated its principled positions and raised concerns over incidents that have affected the safety of Filipino personnel and fishermen in contested waters. At the same time, Manila noted that both countries continued making progress on practical confidence-building measures in the maritime domain, provided these remain consistent with Philippine law and policy.
The talks are significant because they mark a renewed effort to manage tensions after formal discussions had stalled since January last year. They also come at a time when Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has shown openness to reviving joint oil and gas discussions with Beijing, while Manila seeks alternative energy and fertiliser supplies after disruptions linked to the Iran war.
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