China downgrades envoy to South-east Asian meeting after sea row
· Politics · China · Philippines
China downgraded its representation at a South-east Asian defence meeting, with Beijing to be represented by the defence attache of its embassy in the Philippines rather than a senior official, following a maritime row. The move comes as ASEAN and Quad defence chiefs meet in the Philippines, a gathering that Nikkei Asia described as a 'diplomatic test' for Manila. Regional powers are watching how the Philippines balances ties with China and with partners including the US, Japan and the Quad.
Why it matters：The downgrade signals Beijing's displeasure at a time of rising maritime friction, and how Manila manages the competing groupings will shape South China Sea tensions.
Key points
- China will be represented by its defence attache in Manila.
- The decision followed a maritime row.
- ASEAN and Quad defence chiefs are gathering in the Philippines.
Sources (original reporting)
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