China and the Philippines Reach a Deal on South China Sea Shoal

Subheadline

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — China and the Philippines have reached a deal that they hope will end confrontations at the most fiercely disputed shoal in the South China Sea. The agreement was announced Tuesday after a meeting between Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The two countries have been accusing each other of ramming vessels and performing dangerous maneuvers in the South China Sea, the latest flare-up in a long-running dispute over the resource-rich waters.

Steps to End Confrontations

• Establish a direct communication channel between the two countries' coast guards.
• Hold regular meetings to discuss maritime issues.
• Conduct joint exercises and patrols in the South China Sea.

The deal is a significant step forward in reducing tensions between the two countries. However, it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to resolve the underlying dispute over the South China Sea.

The South China Sea is a vital waterway that is home to some of the world's busiest shipping lanes. It is also believed to contain vast reserves of oil and gas.

China's Claims in the South China Sea

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, a vast area that includes the Spratly and Paracel Islands. The Philippines, along with several other countries, disputes these claims.

In recent years, China has been building artificial islands in the South China Sea and increasing its military presence in the region.

The United States has warned China against further militarization of the South China Sea and has conducted freedom of navigation patrols in the area.