This Article is From Aug 25, 2016

China Hopes For Early Talks With Philippines On South China Sea

China Hopes For Early Talks With Philippines On South China Sea

International arbitration tribunal on July 12 ruled against China's claims to rights in South China Sea.

Beijing: China is hoping for talks with the Philippines on the South China Sea issue at an early date, an official said.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang was responding to a comment by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who said the talks might happen "within the year", Xinhua news agency reported.

Duterte said on Tuesday that he had no plan to take the South China Sea arbitration to the East Asia Summit next month, and would rather talk about the dispute with China face to face.

Welcoming Duterte's remarks, Lu said China will always work with countries directly concerned, including the Philippines, to resolve any dispute through peaceful negotiation and consultation.

China and the Philippines, as friendly neighbours, have the ability and wisdom to settle the issue through consultation and restore friendly relations, Lu said.

Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos visited Hong Kong as Duterte's special envoy earlier this month to pave way for talks with Beijing.

 
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