China on Thursday, Feb. 29, said the situation in the South China Sea is “generally stable” as it noted the recent signing of maritime pact between the Philippines and Australia to ensure stability in the region.
Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, reminded Manila and Canberra that relevant countries’ maritime security cooperation “should not undermine other countries’ interests.”
She added any agreement should not “disrupt regional peace and stability.”
The Philippine and Australian governments entered into a memorandum of agreement on maritime cooperation during President Marcos' visit to Canberra.
The agreement would allow both countries to collaborate even more closely and promote their shared vision for the region, including civil maritime security, marine environment protection, maritime domain awareness, and respect for international law.
In their joint press conference, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Philippines and Australia shall continue their maritime cooperative activities as regional partners committed to doing their part to sustain peace and stability in the region.
For his part, President Marcos said defense and security remain a key area of cooperation between the two strategic partners.