Taguig: Outgoing Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian has expressed optimism for the future of Philippine-China relations, hoping for a return to the 'right track'. At the Chinese National Day reception held in Taguig City, Ambassador Huang highlighted his reflection on the engagements between China and the Philippines over the past five years. He noted the strong calls from various sectors in Philippine society to deepen bilateral ties.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ambassador Huang emphasized that the current challenges are temporary in the broader historical context. He expressed confidence that through the efforts of visionary individuals from both nations, the existing difficulties would be overcome, allowing the relations to return to a path of sound and steady development.
While Ambassador Huang did not explicitly address the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, he acknowledged the critical role of dialogue in maintaining stability in the bilateral relations. This is despite the maritime disputes and differences that have existed. Over the years, the relationship between the two countries has endured various challenges and has been passed on from generation to generation.
Ambassador Huang expressed his firm belief that the friendship between the peoples of China and the Philippines will withstand the test of time. He also stated that the momentum of China-Philippines relations is unstoppable. The history of Philippine-China relations has been marked by incidents in the West Philippine Sea, including dangerous maneuvers by Chinese ships and water cannoning of Philippine vessels. These incidents have led Manila to file numerous diplomatic protests against Beijing.
During a farewell meeting on September 19, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro affirmed the country's intention to keep diplomatic channels open with China and expressed interest in future-oriented cooperation. Ambassador Huang began his tenure as Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines on December 4, 2019, when he presented his credentials to then-President Rodrigo Duterte.
