China, Philippines agree to properly manage situation in the South China Sea

China and the Philippines agreed to enhance dialogue and properly manage the situation in the South China Sea during the 11th meeting of the bilateral consultation mechanism on the South China Sea in Quanzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province, on Saturday.

The meeting was co-chaired by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim. The two sides held candid and constructive exchanges on the current situation in the South China Sea. 

China lodged solemn representations over the Philippines' recent maritime-related infringements and provocations. The Chinese side urged the Philippines to match its words with actions, return to the track of resolving maritime issues through dialogue and consultation, and create favorable conditions for stabilizing bilateral relations.

Both sides also discussed cooperation in areas such as maritime law enforcement and marine science and technology, making positive progress. The two sides agreed to strengthen communication on maritime issues, properly manage the situation at sea and steadily advance practical cooperation across various fields.

The two countries also agreed to work with other ASEAN members to fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, accelerate consultations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea and strive for its early conclusion to jointly maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Representatives from the two countries' foreign affairs, defense, natural resources and coast guard authorities also attended the meeting.