Huang urges Philippines to ‘meet China halfway’ on WPS, uphold ‘One China’ policy

Amidst ongoing acts of harassment by Chinese Coast Guard and Chinese military militia vessels against Philippine ships in the West Philippine Sea, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian on Wednesday expressed the importance of the two countries' finding middle ground or reaching a compromise on territorial disputes.

"We hope that the Philippines will meet China halfway, effectively address maritime disputes through dialogue and consultation, and jointly uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea, as well as the positive development of bilateral relations," Huang said.

The envoy made these statements during a press briefing with local and foreign media, just a day after the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. for congratulating Lai Ching-te upon his election to the presidency of Taiwan.

"The relevant remarks of President Marcos constitute a serious violation of the One China principle and ... a serious breach of the political commitments made by the Philippines to the Chinese side, and a gross interference in China's internal affairs," spokesperson Mao Ning had said, adding, "We suggest that President Marcos read more books to properly understand the ins and outs of the Taiwan issue, so as to draw the right conclusions."

While Huang did not repeat the specific remarks, he underscored that China considers its internal affairs, including the Taiwan issue, as highly sensitive matters for their government.

China views democratic, self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary.

"Regarding the Taiwan question, it is essential to understand that China's internal affairs represent the core interests of our country, with extremely high sensitivity," Huang said.

Huang also expressed China's desire for the Philippines to maintain its commitment to the One China Policy, which has been supported by previous Philippine administrations since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"[W]e hope that the Philippine side will continue to uphold the One China Policy followed by previous administrations since we established diplomatic ties, respect China's internal affairs, and handle the Taiwan issue with caution," he said.

Huang declined to comment on Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro's strong condemnation and characterization of the Chinese Foreign Ministry's insult towards Marcos as "low and gutter level talk." — BM, GMA Integrated News