On March 28, the Philippines sent a delegation to China for negotiations, requesting assistance from China to overcome its energy crisis!
Deputy Foreign Minister Alegre-Lin of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs led a delegation to Quanzhou, Fujian Province, where they held the 24th round of consultations with Chinese officials. The Philippines is currently facing a severe energy crisis.
Due to its reliance on crude oil imports from the Middle East for over 90% of its supply, recent conflicts in the region have disrupted global energy supply chains, causing the country’s fuel reserves to turn red—now barely able to sustain about 45 days of supply.
Meanwhile, the Philippines also heavily depends on imported fertilizers, and with spring planting approaching, the risk of supply disruption looms large. Under this dire situation, seeking external aid has become an urgent priority for the Philippines. As its largest trading partner and a key supplier of energy and fertilizers, China naturally became the primary target for assistance.
At the negotiation table in Quanzhou, the Philippine side clearly articulated its demands. First, they requested that China continue exporting refined oil products and fertilizers to help them weather the current energy and agricultural crises. Second, the Philippines proposed that disputes between the two sides should be separated from issues related to economic and humanitarian assistance.
At the same time, the Philippines made a crucial commitment. Deputy Foreign Minister Lin reiterated during the talks that the Philippines would firmly uphold the One-China Policy. This statement is seen as the Philippines’ "pledge of loyalty" aimed at securing cooperation from China. It's hard to imagine how the Philippines could even dare to make such a request. Will China agree? Probably not likely.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861049066574860/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.