PH, China to continue South China Sea talks after Cebu meeting

China announced on Tuesday, February 10, that it held bilateral talks with the Philippines in Cebu to address the South China Sea dispute, with both sides agreeing to keep diplomatic channels open to manage tensions in the contested waters. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian described the discussions as “candid and in-depth,” covering maritime issues and other matters of mutual interest. He added that “both sides agreed to continue maintaining communication through diplomatic channels, properly handle maritime differences, and get the situation at sea under control.” Lin made the remarks in response to questions on whether an ASEAN-China senior officials’ meeting on implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea had helped ease tensions in the disputed waters.