LOOK: China downplays Xi Jinping’s ‘war threat’

MANILA, Philippines  –  China chose to brush aside the recent claim by President Rodrigo Duterte that Chinese President Xi Jinping has threatened the Philippines with war if it pursue its plan to drill oil in the disputed territory in the West Philippine Sea.

In a regular press conference on Monday, May 22, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said China’s position on the South China Sea issue remains ‘consistent’ and ‘clear cut’ – being committed to resolving the disputes on the West Philippines Sea through negotiation and consultation.

The Chinese official did not confirm if Xi indeed threatened Duterte with war, but said the ongoing bilateral consultation mechanisms provides  platform for both governments “to manage differences and conduct cooperation”.

“During President Duterte’s visit to China, the two sides have exchanged in-depth views on the development of China-Philippines relations and other relevant issues. The two sides have agreed to strengthen communication on major issues concerning the development of bilateral relations,” said Hua in a statement.

“Going forward, China wishes to work with the Philippine side to implement the consensus between the two presidents, properly resolve disputes through peaceful and friendly consultation, and continue to deepen and broaden practical cooperation in various areas for the continuous sound and steady development of China-Philippines relations and regional peace and stability,” the Chinese official added.

Last Friday, Duterte admitted Xi warned him of war if the Philippines would stand firm on the arbitral ruling and drilling oil in the West Philippine Sea.

‘He told me ‘Well, we are friends. We do not want to quarrel with you. We would want to maintain the present warm relationship. But if you force the issue, we will go to war,'” the Philippine leader was quoted as saying.

source: kickerdaily