Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying (Source: fmprc.gov.cn)
China on Monday reiterated the importance of properly settling maritime disputes with the Philippines through consultation.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying made the remarks in response to a question regarding recent remarks made by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who said China warned there might be confrontation if the Philippines tried to exploit oil in the disputed South China Sea.
China has always been committed to solving disputes regarding the South China Sea through negotiations with directly involved countries, including the Philippines, she said at a regular press briefing.
"We promote putting aside disputes and engaging in joint exploitation, before the final settlement of disputes is achieved, to create conditions for the final settlement," Hua said.
China and the Philippines convened the first meeting of the bilateral consultation mechanism on the South China Sea issue last Friday, in Guiyang, capital of southwest China's Guizhou Province.
"It marked an important step forward in the correct way to solve the South China Sea issue through negotiations," she said.
The mechanism has offered an important platform for both sides to control difference and carry out cooperation, the spokesperson added.
During President Duterte's recent China trip, leaders of both countries had an in-depth exchange of views on the future development of ties and other relevant issues, Hua said.
Both sides agreed to strengthen communication on major issues regarding bilateral ties, guide the development of bilateral ties on a correct path of friendly cooperation between good neighbors, and deepen pragmatic cooperation within the Belt and Road framework to boost common development and prosperity, said the spokesperson.
China hopes to work closely with the Philippines to implement consensus of the two state leaders, properly handle difference through peaceful and friendly negotiations, cement substantial cooperation and boost healthy and stable growth of ties, she said.
"This not only benefits the two countries, but also helps regional peace and stability," she added.
