The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and the Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU) hosted the 14th Manila Forum for Philippines-China Relations on Sept. 17, with the theme “Ensuring Continuing Peace and Security in the Asia-Pacific Region.”
About 300 political and business leaders, members of the Filipino-Chinese community, media, think tanks and diplomats participated in the event.
Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian noted China’s recent diplomatic achievements, including the successful hosting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Tianjin Summit and the conference marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
Huang stressed China’s role as a stabilizing force in global affairs, advocating for international fairness and justice.
He reiterated China’s commitment to working with neighboring countries to promote peace, cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, all of which he described as core Asian values.
Victor Gao, vice president of the Center for China and Globalization said China and the Philippines have coexisted peacefully for thousands of years without war or confrontation.
He expressed confidence that the two nations would remain close neighbors and friends for years to come.
Gao also urged Filipinos to deepen economic ties with China while maintaining a balanced foreign policy.
A panel discussion featured Gao alongside Su Hao, director of the Center for Strategy and Peace Studies at China Foreign Affairs University; Ding Dou, director of the Research Center for International and Regional Issues at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies; former National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr.; former presidential spokesperson Rigoberto Tiglao; and APCU Chairman Atty. Raul Lambino.
The participants engaged in in-depth discussions on regional security, diplomatic cooperation and economic engagement aimed at sustaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific.
