Philippines and China Engage in Tense Talks Over South China Sea Dispute

The Philippines and China conducted frank discussions on the contentious Escoda Shoal in the South China Sea. The Philippines asserts it is within its exclusive economic zone, while China demands Manila withdraw its vessels, emphasizing its sovereignty over the area.

The Philippine and Chinese governments held 'frank and candid' discussions regarding the Escoda Shoal (Sabina Shoal) in the contested South China Sea waters, according to local media. Manila reaffirmed its claim that the area is part of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) during the 10th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism meeting in Beijing on September 11.

Philippines Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma Theresa Lazaro emphasized her country's jurisdiction over the shoal, despite Beijing's insistence that Manila vacate the region. Lazaro expressed the Philippines' steadfast stance on the issue and explored potential solutions to reduce tensions. Discussions are set to continue on various cooperative measures, including hotline mechanisms and marine scientific cooperation.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong maintained China's official standpoint on Xianbin Jiao (Chinese name for Sabina Shoal) and urged the withdrawal of Philippine vessels. China, according to the Global Times, aims to uphold its sovereignty and enforce the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

The dispute over the Escoda or Sabina Shoal, located in the Spratly Islands, involves claims from China, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Recent incidents, including allegations of intentional ramming of coast guard vessels, have escalated tensions between Manila and Beijing. The broader conflict is rooted in overlapping territorial claims in the strategic and resource-rich South China Sea, with China asserting control based on its 'nine-dash line' and the Philippines citing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to support its EEZ.

(With inputs from agencies.)