China’s ‘impossible’ demands reason why PHL refuses bilateral talks – DFA

From GMA News (Jun 11): China’s ‘impossible’ demands reason why PHL refuses bilateral talks – DFA

Amid reports that China has suggested anew a bilateral form of negotiation to settle territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday dismissed the possibility of one-on-one talks.

Speaking to reporters, DFA spokesperson Charles Jose said the Philippine government has "exhausted all reasonable effort" to resolve the issue through bilateral consultations as China demands. Talks failed, he said, because of the conditions set by China.

"Sinubukan na natin. And then may impossible pre-condition nga ang China sa bilateral talks na gusto nila. We should recognize 'yung indisputable sovereignty nila. I think that is an impossible pre-condition that we cannot accept," said Jose.

The Philippines has already submitted a formal protest to the United Nations Arbitral Tribunal in reaction to China's continued construction on disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea.

Asked about China's reported military exercises in Bashi Channel, Jose said the DFA has no confirmation if the military drills were done in Philippine territorial waters.

The DFA spokesperson said, however, that the Philippine government should be informed if China is to conduct military activities within Philippine territory.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/502726/news/nation/china-s-impossible-demands-reason-why-phl-refuses-bilateral-talks-dfa