Relations between China and the Philippines are at a new turning point, a top Chinese diplomat has told a visiting Philippine delegation, adding that China hopes the Philippines can handle disputes "appropriately" and get relations back on track. The remarks by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin come as the two countries at odds over sovereignty in the South China Sea try to sound each other out, and set guidelines for dialogue on an issue in which both vowed not to give way. "At present, China-Philippines relations are a new turning point," it quoted Liu as saying, adding that China hoped the Philippines "can meet China halfway, appropriately handle disputes and push relations back onto the track of dialogue, consultation and friendly cooperation.

Salaverria, L. B. (2016, September 15). Relations with PH warming up — China. Philippine Daily Inquirer, pp. A1, A6.