The two countries are in a long-running territorial dispute over the South China Sea, almost all of which is claimed by China. Chinese and Philippine ships have engaged in tense stand-offs in the area.



​​​​In addition to the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei and Malaysia are involved in territorial disputes with China over the South China Sea.


The 3.5 million-square-kilometer area is one of the world's most important shipping routes. It is also rich in fishing grounds and potential energy deposits.


Small-scale clashes, mostly between fishing vessels or patrol boats, occasionally break out between China and other claimant countries But disputes have not escalated to the point of an all-out war.


Earlier this week, the Philippines said it will host a meeting next month with officials from Vietnam, Brunei and Malaysia on how to resolve territorial disputes in the South China Sea.




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Philippines Protests Depiction of Disputed Islands on New Chinese Passports