Settle territorial rows through negotiation not confrontation

A worrying series of maritime confrontations between China and the Philippines has been playing out for months in the South China Sea that has threatened to spark a wider conflict. At long last, both sides have sat down for talks in Manila, and while a host of differences remain, they have importantly agreed to de-escalate tensions in the disputed region. The pledge to ratchet down tensions, and the fact that they agreed to keep speaking, are the first positive developments in the relationship for months.

Among the most serious in a spate of clashes at sea was an incident at Second Thomas Shoal in mid-June, during which the Chinese coastguard intercepted a Philippine naval mission to resupply troops stationed on the disputed reef. Eight Philippine sailors were injured in the subsequent clashes, including one who lost a thumb. The US State Department condemned China’s “escalatory and irresponsible actions” and reaffirmed Washington’s obligation to defend the Philippines under a 1951 treaty. It is hoped it will never come to that.

Former ambassador to the US Cui Tiankai, without mentioning Washington, said this week that if there had not been external interference in the region, relations between China and the Philippines would be “much better” than they are now. He called for efforts to eliminate that interference and put bilateral ties back on a healthier and mutually beneficial track.