DFA summons Chinese envoy over ‘may easily win’ West PH Sea remark

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday summoned Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan over his remarks that China “may easily win” in a confrontation in the West Philippine Sea.

DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro summoned Jing to express the Philippines’ objection to his public statements. The DFA had previously characterized the ambassador’s remark as a “thinly veiled threat.”

“Secretary Lazaro told the Ambassador that the statement was provocative and unacceptable, and does not contribute to creating understanding,” the DFA said in a statement.

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Lazaro warned the Chinese envoy that such language only worsens “an already sensitive bilateral atmosphere,” and “undermines the shared efforts of both countries to build mutual understanding and cooperation.”

The DFA also condemned Jing’s responses via the embassy’s official social media platforms to the lawmakers and government officials that have since criticized him.

“It is not the place of a foreign mission to publicly criticize or taunt Philippine officials and legislators who are acting within their mandates. As a democracy, the Philippines values freedom of expression and a plurality of voices, and it will not accept attempts by a foreign envoy to intimidate those who exercise them,” the DFA added.

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Lazaro reminded Jing that sensitive issues must instead be addressed through diplomatic channels. /dl

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