Southeast Asia’s Tensions Ease as Philippines and China Agree to Cooperate in South China Sea
Tentative Steps towards Cooperation
MANILA: The Philippines and China have taken a step towards easing tensions in the South China Sea by agreeing to seek common ground and find ways to cooperate, despite their ongoing disagreements over vessels deployed around disputed features.
Dialogue and Cooperation
The two countries held their 10th round of talks under a bilateral consultation mechanism set up to address issues in the South China Sea, where disputes have been frequent and tense. The talks resulted in agreements to advance coast guard and marine scientific cooperation, as well as a pledge to resolve issues peacefully.
"We firmly believe that despite the unresolved challenges and differences, there is genuine space for diplomatic and pragmatic cooperation in dealing with our issues in the South China Sea," said Philippine foreign affairs undersecretary Theresa Lazaro in her opening remarks.
China’s Position
China, on the other hand, called on the Philippines to remain committed to resolving differences through dialogue and consultation. Beijing also expressed concerns over recent "maritime infringements and provocations" and for "hyping up" maritime disputes.
Recent Standoffs
The Philippines, a US ally, expressed serious concern about the conduct of China’s coast guard, including its sustained presence in Manila’s exclusive economic zone. China, in turn, called out the Philippines for its "unfriendly" behavior and "provocative" actions.
Historical Context
China’s expansive territorial claims in the key maritime trade route overlap with the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. A 2016 ruling by an international arbitral tribunal declared that Beijing’s claims, based on its historic maps, have no basis under international law, a decision China does not recognize.
Conclusion
While the agreement to cooperate is a step in the right direction, the road to resolving the South China Sea disputes will be long and challenging. Both countries will need to demonstrate a commitment to peaceful resolution and respect for each other’s sovereignty.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the key issues in the South China Sea?
- Territorial disputes over islands and waters
- Who are the main claimants?
- China, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei
- What is the significance of the South China Sea?
- A key maritime trade route and potential source of energy and natural resources
- What is the current state of relations between the Philippines and China?
- Tense, with frequent standoffs and disagreements over disputed features