VIENTIANE: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken hit out at Beijing’s “escalatory actions” in the South China Sea on Saturday, ahead of his talks with China’s Foreign Minister at a regional meeting in Laos.
Blinken has arrived in Vientiane for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers meeting, part of an Asian trip aimed at reinforcing regional relations in the face of an increasingly assertive China.
Antony Blinken has prioritized promoting a “free and open” Asia-Pacific region — a lightly veiled criticism of Beijing’s regional economic, strategic and territorial desires. The US and ASEAN had to work together to “address issues,” Blinken told the meeting. He said that they are pleased to take note of the successful resupply today.
China-Philippines
Beijing will “reply resolutely” to any violation by the Philippines of a recent agreement to calm tensions between the two sides in the South China Sea, its top diplomat told his Filipino counterpart, China said Saturday.
The Chinese top FM warned the Philippines regarding deploying an American missile defense system. Wang Yi said that it will create tension in the region and trigger an arms race If the Philippines introduces the US missile defense system.
READ ALSO: Khan Yunis Fighting Displaces 180,000 People in Four Days: UN
Similarly, talking to media Friday, Manalo hoped China would keep its side of the bargain. He said that the two sides implement, and they hoped Beijing implements the deal, then they will be able to resupply their military personnel on the ship without any hurdle.
Earlier, the two nations agreed to a “provisional arrangement” for resupply missions to Filipino forces stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, which has been the focus of clashes in recent months.
