New Chinese envoy calls for dialogue, restraint amid South China Sea tensions

Chinese flags wave with Philippine flags along Roxas Boulevard in Manila on November 19, 2018. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA — New Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan urged dialogue, restraint, and a broader view of bilateral ties as he acknowledged rising tensions in the South China Sea, saying maritime disputes should not define China–Philippines relations.

Speaking at a New Year media reception in Manila, Jing said his role is to help ensure that ties between the two countries stabilize.

“As ambassador, I will firmly safeguard national interests and dignity while serving as a bridge to ensure that China-Philippines relations move toward stability rather than deterioration, and that the two peoples grow closer rather than further apart. I know the task ahead is demanding, but I remain confident and look forward to receiving strong support from all sides,” he said.

'MANAGING' TENSION

While acknowledging maritime disputes, Jing said China and the Philippines have the capacity to manage differences.

“There are maritime disputes between China and the Philippines, which in recent years have become more pronounced. China also has land or maritime disputes with several other neighbors, including India, Vietnam, and Japan. But through dialogue, we found solutions, or at least we managed the tensions. I believe that China and the Philippines also have the ability and wisdom to properly manage our differences.”

Jing, who has been in the Philippines for just over a month, said Filipinos he has met do not want conflict between the two neighbors. China agrees.

“None of the Filipino friends I have met hopes that our two countries would come into conflict. Neither does China. Any conflict would inevitably harm the long-term relationship between the two neighboring countries.”

'PRELIMINARY CONSENSUS'

He said diplomats from both sides have already reached a “preliminary consensus on a roadmap for the next stage dialogue and negotiation,” and expressed hope that talks on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea would accelerate this year as the Philippines chairs ASEAN.

“This year, the Philippines is chairing the ASEAN. Both sides hope to accelerate negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. To this end, consultations are becoming more frequent and more intensive.”

Jing stressed that disagreements at sea are only one aspect of bilateral ties, echoing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s remark that “our differences should be the exception in our ties rather than the norm.”

Jing noted that China has been the Philippines’ largest trading partner and largest source of imports for the past decade. He said Beijing welcomes more Philippine exports, particularly agricultural products. He also highlighted the growing presence of Chinese brands, electric vehicles, and technology in the Philippine market.

Jing also pointed to infrastructure and energy cooperation, including China-funded bridge projects and discussions on garbage-to-energy facilities, saying Chinese technology could process up to 10,000 tons of waste daily and a reduction in electricity prices, if introduced locally.

Addressing geopolitical concerns, Jing said relations are not a zero-sum game.

“The Philippines does not need to choose sides, nor rely on one to counter the other. Like other ASEAN countries, it can maintain sound relations with both China and the United States. This best serves the Philippines’ fundamental and long-term interests.”

VISA-FREE ENTRY, WARNING VS FAKE NEWS

Jing welcomed Manila’s decision to grant 14-day visa-free entry to Chinese nationals but raised concerns over crimes targeting Chinese citizens, calling for stronger law-enforcement cooperation to ensure safety for people-to-people exchanges.

He also urged journalists to uphold objectivity and fairness, saying the Chinese Embassy welcomes constructive dialogue but warned against “groundless attacks and smears.“

“If fake news are spread, if China is defamed or if hatred is incited, we will not remain patient and silent. We will push back firmly without hesitation. This is our duty. We have every legitimate right to let the public be aware of the basic facts and China’s position,” Jing said.

As China and the Philippines move beyond 50 years of diplomatic relations, Jing said he hopes future generations will look back with pride on efforts made today to preserve cooperation and friendship.

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