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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Gonzales defends PBBM on Taiwan issue; tells China it's all about respect 

Gonzales defends PBBM on Taiwan issue; tells China it's all about respect 

Published Jan 18, 2024 08:40 am

At A Glance

  • House Senior Deputy Speaker Pampanga 3rd district Rep. Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales Jr. has defended President Marcos' gesture of goodwill toward the newly-elected president of Taiwan.

FB_IMG_1699436359173.jpgPampanga 3rd district Rep. Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales Jr. (Facebook)

International discourse must be handled with respect.

House Senior Deputy Speaker Pampanga 3rd district Rep. Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales Jr. gave this reaction Thursday, Jan. 18 after China’s rather condescending "suggestion" to President Marcos to "read more books" on the Taiwan issue.

"While we appreciate constructive dialogue, it's crucial to approach international discourse with respect," said Gonzales, the second-highesr ranking member of the House of Representatives.

"Suggestions that undermine the competence of our nation's leader are neither productive nor reflective of the mutual respect that should anchor our bilateral relations," he noted.

"The strength of our nation lies in our ability to engage with the world with dignity, respect, and a clear understanding of our national interests," added the House official.

Beijing's bellyaching began after President Marcos congratulated newly-elected Taiwan President Lai Ching-te.

On Tuesday, China seemingly lectured the Philippine leader to “read more books” so he could “properly understand the ins and outs of the Taiwan issue”.

Marcos’ congratulatory remarks were said to be in violation of the one-China principle. But Gonzales said Marcos had all the right to greet Taiwan's new leader.

Gonzales said Marcos' gesture of goodwill toward President Lai “aligns with our country’s diplomatic principles and commitment to fostering positive international relations".

"President Marcos, as the elected leader of our sovereign nation, holds the prerogative to extend congratulations and foster amicable relations with global leaders," he said.

He stressed that the President’s congratulatory message to the Taiwanese leader should not be misconstrued as a deviation from the Philippines' established foreign policies.

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https://mb.com.ph/2024/1/18/barbers-tells-china-don-t-treat-ph-as-your-subject

"The Philippines values its diplomatic relationship with China and remains committed to mutual respect and understanding. However, it's imperative to clarify that fostering friendly ties with neighboring countries and acknowledging their leadership does not equate to 'playing with fire’, as the foreign ministry put it.”

Gonzales further highlighted the profound people-to-people relations between the Philippines and Taiwan, underscored by the significant number of Filipino citizens contributing to Taiwan's society and economy.

"Our connections go beyond diplomatic formalities. They are rooted in the shared aspirations and hard work of our people," he said.

Related Tags

Taiwan respect aurelio dong gonzales President Marcos
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