Foreign Ministry: Dialogue over maritime disputes benefits China, the Philippines

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China and the Philippines are back on track to peacefully solving disputes through dialogue and consultation, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said Wednesday.

Geng said China is committed to resolving disputes through dialogue, consultation and other peaceful means with countries directly concerned.

The relationship between China and the Philippines has benefited both peoples and contributed to regional stability since ties normalized last year, he added.

"China's position on the so-called Hague ruling is consistent and clear," Geng said, noting that China is determined to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea.

Overseas Chinese see off a visiting Chinese naval fleet at the Port of Davao, the Philippines, May 2, 2017. /Xinhua Photo

Previously, the Philippine government's approach to handling disputes over territorial claims in the South China Sea has created a "healthy environment of dialogue, cooperation and development," Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's administration said Wednesday.

The statement was made on the one year anniversary of the issuing of a ruling by a court in The Hague on the South China Sea territorial dispute case.

Relations between China and the Philippines have improved since Duterte's visit to Beijing last October.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) holds hands with his Philippine counterpart Rodrigo Duterte in Beijing, October 20, 2016. /Xinhua Photo

"President Duterte's priority of regional peace and stability has led to the healthy environment of dialogue, cooperation and development," the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said.

Manila said disputes should be resolved "in a manner consistent with the spirit of good neighborly relations" and that the country will remain "an enemy to none and a friend to all."

Improved relations with China have brought benefits to the Philippines such as economic gains, the statement stressed.