Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned the Philippines of “bitter consequences” following a recent clash at sea. The two countries’ top diplomats met in Manila days earlier to stress the need to avoid miscalculation.
On July 22, Wang Yi met Philippine Foreign Minister Maria Theresa Lazaro on the sidelines of an ASEAN foreign ministers’ gathering. It was their first formal talks since Lazaro took office in July last year. Both sides described the meeting as “candid, comprehensive and constructive” and agreed on the importance of maintaining regional peace and stability while reducing the risk of miscalculation.
Lazaro protested “violent actions” by China Coast Guard personnel near Second Thomas Shoal, known in the Philippines as Ayungin Shoal. The talks also covered maritime disputes, security, law enforcement, trade and tourism.
On July 23, Wang warned Manila against provoking Beijing with help from countries outside the region. He noted Beijing’s high alert over Manila’s closer defence ties with Washington and Tokyo.
