After War of Words, China Says Relations With Philippines at ‘Critical Juncture’
China said it was willing to improve relations with the Philippines while describing them as at an extremely sensitive and critical juncture caused by unnamed outside forces. Ambassador Jing Quan said China could easily win a war with the Philippines, responding to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro's description of China as the lone troublemaker in Southeast Asia; President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the remark sounded like a threat and that he would summon the ambassador. The Chinese embassy later called the Philippines a close neighbor and friend, said Manila need not choose between China and the United States, and urged dialogue to manage differences.
Why it matters: The exchange shows how domestic political rivalry in the Philippines can affect Manila’s management of South China Sea disputes and its balancing between China and the United States.