MOFA response to statement by Philippine Foreign Secretary on importance of cross-strait situation to the Philippines and need for all parties to resolve disputes peacefully

August 17, 2024

In response to a question at a forum held by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines on August 16, Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo stated that the situation across the Taiwan Strait was very important to the Philippines, adding that he hoped all parties could resolve issues peacefully. The statement by Foreign Secretary Manalo in support of peace across the Taiwan Strait follows his reaffirmation of the importance of cross-strait peace and stability in a joint statement issued after the Philippines-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue on July 30. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of China (Taiwan) welcomes and appreciates this support. MOFA is willing to steadily enhance substantive cooperation between Taiwan and the Philippines in accordance with comprehensive diplomacy built on the three pillars of values, alliances, and the economy and trade.

High-level officials from the Philippines, including President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., and Foreign Secretary Manalo, have recently on multiple occasions openly expressed concern over cross-strait developments and called for the maintenance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. MOFA welcomes joint efforts with the international community aimed at ensuring peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait; defending the core values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law; and upholding a free and open Indo-Pacific.