Chinese Foreign Minister Wang meets Secretary Locsin virtually
MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs today confirmed Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. met with State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the latter’s request. The meeting was described as “open, cordial and fruitful.” It took place yesterday from 2:30 to 3:30 P.M.
Secretary Locsin reiterated the need for continued dialogue to strengthen the Philippines – China cooperation across various fronts, under the “new normal” brought about by the worldwide Covide-19 pandemic.
The two Foreign Ministers agreed that Philippines-China bilateral relations achieved a positive turn around and a sound momentum of development through the joint efforts and mutual trust of both sides.
In the end, they reaffirmed that the controversial maritime issues are not the sum total of the Philippines-China bilateral relations. With mutual respect, sincerity and adherence to sovereign equality, both sides will pursue to manage issues of concern and promote maritime cooperation in friendly consultation.
According to the DFA statement, both sides agreed to strengthen Philippines-China comprehensive strategic cooperation.
The virtual meeting took place two days after Foreign Secretary Locsin said the Arbitral Tribunal decision handed down four years ago was non-negotiable. The videoconference happened a day after US Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo said claims made by the People’s Republic of China are unlawful eliciting a strong reaction from the Chinese Embassy in Washington. It will be recalled the Embassy spokesperson said the United States is a non-claimant country and has distorted international law. (Melo M. Acuña)
State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (left) and Foreign Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. talked about Philippines-China bilateral relations Tuesday afternoon. (DFA Photo)
Comments