China Hopes Philippines Makes Wise Choice on South China Sea Issue

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi has said China hopes the Philippines can make a wise choice in seeking a solution to the South China Sea dispute.

"It is a deadlock impeding China-Philippines ties from being improved. We do not want to see it getting worse, becoming a problem that defies a solution. The key to solving this depends on the Philippines' action, as it should undo what it has already done. We hope the Philippines can make a wiser choice on this issue."

Wang made the comment on the sidelines of his meetings with the Filipino president and secretary of foreign affairs in Manila.

He said the current situation in China-Philippine relations is not what the people of both countries expect to see and is jeopardizing the interests of the Philippines in the long-run.

Wang added China hopes to reestablish a normal, stable, and healthy bilateral friendship with the Philippines and put China-Philippines relations back on the track of healthy development as soon as possible.

Wang Yi also said the upcoming APEC meting to be held in the Philippines is important to Asian countries as it helps promote cooperation among developing countries in the region.

"Successfully holding this summit is a good thing for Asia as a big family, as well as for further strengthening the ties and cooperation among developing countries. So we wish it well, and are willing to offer necessary support."

Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting after wrapping up the 10th Group of 20 meeting in Turkey next Monday.