Groups back DFA on sustained talks with China

MANILA, Philippines — A total of 20 labor, business and civil society organizations expressed support for the call of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to sustain dialogue and cooperation with China, citing its importance in advancing national interest and promoting economic growth.

In a joint statement yesterday, the groups welcomed DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro’s recent engagement with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Lazaro said both sides emphasized the need for continued diplomatic dialogue and mutual respect for differences.

The ministers’ discussion covered the state and direction of bilateral relations following a series of heated exchanges between the Chinese embassy in Manila and some Philippine officials.

“We recognize the DFA’s pragmatic and statesmanlike approach in protecting the country’s national interests, particularly its economic development, trade and exports, tourism, overseas Filipino workers and other vital bilateral engagements with China, the Philippines’ largest trading partner,” the groups said.

Amid global uncertainty and intensifying competition, the groups said other Southeast Asian countries are strengthening partnerships with China to promote trade, investment, technology, infrastructure and tourism.

For the groups, the Philippines should do the same by pursuing mutually beneficial economic opportunities through constructive engagement.

While the groups are pushing for continued engagement with China, they emphasized the need to continue to uphold the Philippines’ sovereignty and national interests.

“We therefore support the DFA’s pursuit of principled diplomacy and sustained dialogue over confrontation, recognizing that a balanced and constructive relationship with China is essential to advancing Philippine economic security, national interests and sustainable development,” the groups said.

The joint statement was issued by the Asian Association of Academic Administrators and Educators Inc., Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc., Federation of Free Workers, Federation of Philippine Industries Inc., Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines, GS1 Philippines, OFW Foundation, Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association, Philippine Association of Legitimate Service Contractors, Philippine Association of Salt Industry Networks Inc., Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc., Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc., Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization Inc., Philippine Franchise Association, Philippine Retailers Association, Philippine Young Entrepreneurs Association, Semiconductor and Electronic Industries in the Philippines Foundation Inc. and Women’s Business Council Philippines.

Earlier, various groups also called for the de-escalation of tensions with China, citing risks to deep trade and economic ties if tensions persist.

China and Hong Kong serve as the Philippines’ largest trading partner, accounting for nearly 30 percent of the country’s total international trade in recent years.

China is also a source of remittances and tourists for the Philippines.