China continues to seek maritime ties amid South China Sea dispute

Philippines President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping. - Reuters

MANILA (Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network): China is still committed to look for ways for maritime cooperation despite the Philippine Supreme Court’s ruling that voided a 2005 oil exploration agreement in the West Philippine Sea.

“China remains committed to properly handle maritime disputes in the South China Sea with countries directly concerned, including the Philippines, through dialogue and consultation, and to actively explore ways for practical maritime cooperation including joint exploration,” China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Wang Wenbin said in a press conference on Wednesday (Jan 11).