China’s Vice Foreign Minister and his Philippine counterpart held a “frank and in-depth” exchange on sea-related issues, particularly the contentious Sabina Shoal, also known as Xianbin Reef, in a meeting on Wednesday, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
During the high-level talks, China reiterated its demand for the immediate withdrawal of a Philippine vessel from the disputed area, emphasizing its commitment to “firmly uphold its sovereignty” over the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry underscored Beijing’s unwavering stance on the issue, as tensions between the two nations continue to simmer.
The meeting marked a significant diplomatic effort to address the longstanding dispute over the Sabina Shoal, located in the disputed waters of the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands, which China refers to as the Nansha Islands. The area has been a focal point of contention between China and several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, due to competing claims of sovereignty.
The South China Sea, a critical waterway through which $3 trillion worth of trade passes annually, has been a source of tension between China and its neighbors, with Beijing claiming sovereignty over most of the region. The dispute has sparked concerns about regional stability and freedom of navigation.
Despite the differences, both countries agreed to continue their dialogue through diplomatic channels, indicating a willingness to engage in constructive talks to resolve the issue. The outcome of the meeting and future negotiations will be closely watched, as the situation has significant implications for regional security and economic interests.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry’s statement did not provide further details on the specific agreements or concessions discussed during the meeting, but emphasized the importance of maintaining diplomatic communication to address the complex issue.
