China expresses concern over Duterte's call to occupy islands

BEIJING - China's Foreign Ministry on Friday expressed concern after a statement from Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's office said he had ordered troops to occupy uninhabited islands and shoals that the Philippines claims in the disputed waterway.

"Having noted the report, the Chinese side is concerned about it," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a press conference.

Hua added: "We hope the Philippine side will continue to properly manage maritime disputes with China and work with us to maintain the sound and steady growth of China-Philippines relations."

The official, meanwhile, said that China remains committed to "defending its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, and safeguarding peace and stability there."

She, however, clarified that the situation in the South China Sea is "getting better."

"This has not come easily and deserves to be cherished and preserved by all parties," Hua added.

Relations between China and the Philippines started to improve as Duterte took the presidency in July last year.

The president had also visited China in October 2016, where Duterte and President Xi Jinping agreed to resolve the maritime dispute between the two nations through bilateral talks.

The talks on the maritime disputes between the two countries will begin in May.

Both leaders also agreed to exercise self restraint in conducting activities in the West Philippine Sea.

Following Duterte's visit in China, Filipino fishermen were allowed by Chinese authorities to return to the disputed Scarborough Shoal.

The coast guards of both countries have also been conducting joint patrol in the disputed area.

Duterte was also able to secure millions in aid and investment agreements with China and Chinese private firms during the visit.

On Friday, Philippine defense and military officials clarified that Duterte only wanted an upgrade of existing facilities on its inhabited islands and reefs in the South China Sea and not occupy new territories, adhering to a 2002 informal code in the disputed waters.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, where about $5 trillion worth of seaborne goods pass every year. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan also have claims. —Reuters