Philippine officials express confidence that China's recent remarks will not impact the attendance of ASEAN leaders at the upcoming summit in the Philippines this November.
Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the Philippine president, has expressed confidence that recent statements by China will not affect the participation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders at the summit scheduled to be held in the Philippines this November. During a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro emphasized that the Philippines has been actively coordinating with all ASEAN member states and other potential participants to ensure smooth preparations for the summit. Castro noted that the diplomatic efforts made by the host country demonstrate the Philippines’ commitment to fostering cooperation and open dialogue among Southeast Asian nations and their partners.
The backdrop of this assurance stems from comments made by Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, who accused the Philippines of undermining ASEAN’s spirit of openness and China’s legitimate rights as a dialogue partner. This followed an incident during the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) where the Philippine Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. welcomed defense ministers and representatives, with the exception of China’s defense attaché to the Philippines, Senior Captain Yang Lei.
Officials from Malacañang expressed a preference for the attendance of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the ASEAN Summit, viewing it as an ideal opportunity to address pressing regional issues and promote conflict resolution. Although it remains unconfirmed whether President Marcos personally re-invited Xi Jinping to attend, the Palace said such details would be provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
This diplomatic context is particularly sensitive given ongoing discussions related to the West Philippine Sea and broader ASEAN-China relations. Nonetheless, the Philippines remains focused on its role as host to facilitate constructive and peaceful dialogue. The upcoming ASEAN Summit marks a critical occasion to address cooperation, regional security, economic development, and mutual understanding among Southeast Asian nations and their international partners.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/1008094/palace-confident-china-s-statement-would-not-affect-asean-meeting-in-november/story/
