Beijing and Manila should avoid South China Sea ‘miscalculation’: top diplomats

Beijing and Manila should avoid South China Sea ‘miscalculation’: top diplomats Foreign ministers meet on margins of Asean event in Manila, days after fresh sea clash and outrage over video mocking 2016 arbitral ruling The meeting on the sidelines of the Asean foreign ministers’ gathering marked the first formal talks between the top diplomats since Maria Theresa Lazaro assumed office in July last year. The Philippine foreign ministry described Wednesday’s meeting between Wang and Lazaro as “candid, comprehensive and constructive”. “The two sides underscored the importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region, reducing the risk of miscalculation, and sustaining dialogue on matters of mutual concern,” it said in a read-out. The talks covered a wide range of topics, including maritime disputes, security, law enforcement, trade and investment cooperation as well as tourism and regional issues, according to the ministry. Lazaro reiterated Manila’s protest against “violent actions” by China Coast Guard personnel near the Second Thomas Shoal, known as Renai Jiao in China and Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines.