The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has welcomed a joint statement from 20 business, labor, industry, and civil society organizations supporting the government's push for diplomacy and sustained dialogue with China amid continuing bilateral challenges.
In a statement, the DFA expressed appreciation for the groups' recognition of the challenges involved in diplomatic work and the importance of maintaining a measured and principled approach in dealing with Beijing.
The organizations, in their joint statement, commended Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro for her recent engagement with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and her call for continued dialogue and cooperation between the Philippines and China.
They described the DFA's approach as pragmatic and statesmanlike, particularly in protecting the country's economic interests, including trade and exports, tourism, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and other important bilateral engagements.
China remains the Philippines' largest trading partner, according to the joint statement.
The groups also pointed out that other Southeast Asian countries are strengthening their trade, investment, technology, infrastructure, and tourism partnerships with China amid global economic uncertainties and intensifying competition.
They said the Philippines should likewise pursue mutually beneficial economic opportunities through constructive engagement while firmly protecting its sovereignty and national interests.
"We therefore support the DFA's pursuit of principled diplomacy and sustained dialogue over confrontation, recognizing that a balanced and constructive relationship with China is essential to advancing Philippine economic security, national interests, and sustainable development," the organizations said.
The DFA, meanwhile, stressed that pursuing diplomatic engagement does not mean abandoning the country's rights and entitlements.
In its statement, the department said candor, composure, principled conduct, sound judgment, and measured engagement remain vital in conducting foreign relations, even as the Philippines continues to assert and uphold its sovereign rights.
The joint statement was signed by 20 organizations, including the Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation, Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines, and Women's Business Council Philippines.
Other signatories include labor groups, agricultural and food industry organizations, retailers, entrepreneurs, and civil society organizations.
