The Associated Press (AP) had earlier reported that the agreement would open a direct line of communication between the two countries’ presidential offices, citing highlights of the accord.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian did not address whether direct communication between the presidential offices would be established when asked for comment during a regular press conference on Wednesday (Jul 17).
Mr Lin said in his response that both countries agreed to “further enhance communication and dialogue between diplomatic and coast guard agencies, so as to jointly keep the maritime situation and the overall bilateral relationship stable”.
The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson also stressed that China is always “committed to properly handling maritime relations with the Philippines through dialogue and consultation”.
The foreign ministry of the Philippines did not immediately respond on Wednesday to requests for comment on the matter.
CHALLENGE TO CHINA
The Philippines last month accused China’s coast guard of intentionally ramming and deliberately puncturing navy boats and seizing weapons to disrupt a resupply mission to troops stationed on the vessel grounded at the shoal, seriously injuring a Filipino sailor who lost a finger.
China said the Philippine vessel had illegally intruded on its territory and had “deliberately and dangerously” approached a Chinese ship resulting in a slight collision.
The agreement on communications channels is not the first, with the two sides establishing a line between respective maritime offices.
They agreed during the recent bilateral meeting on the need to “restore trust” and “rebuild confidence” to better manage disputes.
The Philippine resupply missions, often accompanied by media, have riled China, which sees the Second Thomas Shoal as part of its territory, despite being 1,300km off its mainland and within Manila’s EEZ.
