China has suggested doing joint military exercises with the Philippines, according to Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., the head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
This proposal comes as an apparent way for China to show its friendly intentions towards the Philippines amidst tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
The offer was made by Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian during the celebration of the 96th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Mandaluyong City
Brawner acknowledged the strong military ties between the two countries during his speech at the event.
He highlighted instances when the PLA provided essential support during the Marawi siege in 2017 and also donated engineering equipment and vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brawner mentioned that the AFP also sends military officers for training and education in China and expressed willingness to continue doing so if invited.
Despite this friendly proposal, there have been frequent tense encounters at sea between the two countries, particularly in the South China Sea, where Chinese vessels have been known to harass Philippine ships and intrude into the Philippines’ waters.
China has occupied parts of the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, which falls within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
The Chinese ambassador emphasized that the PLA is committed to safeguarding world peace and is a peace-loving army.
He mentioned that the military relations between China and the Philippines have been progressing steadily under the guidance of their respective presidents, President Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 28, 2023
