Amidst escalating tensions in the South China Sea, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr revealed that backchannel efforts are ongoing between Manila and Beijing to seek resolution. He emphasized the importance of exploring all avenues for potential progress during his keynote speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.
Marcos Jnr expressed a willingness to engage in negotiations with China to halt aggressive actions and ensure the safety of Filipino fishermen. The two nations have been embroiled in disputes, including a recent fishing ban imposed by China in the South China Sea.
The summit, addressing global security issues, will feature discussions on the West Philippine Sea and its significance in international trade. This platform will also witness China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun’s debut, alongside crucial talks on maritime law enforcement and crisis management in the Asia-Pacific region.