The top diplomats of China and the Philippines have agreed to seek de-escalation of tensions in the South China Sea based on a recently announced provisional arrangement.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo held talks on Friday on the sidelines of ASEAN meetings in Laos. Top diplomats of the two nations met in person for the first time in two years.
Wang said the current relations between China and the Philippines do not serve the interests of both countries.
He said China will make efforts to address differences with the Philippines appropriately, through communications and dialogue.
Manalo referred to the provisional arrangement announced on Sunday for troop rotation and resupply missions for the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.
The Philippines has a military outpost at the shoal and delivers supplies to personnel stationed there.
Manalo said his country is prepared to implement the provisional arrangement and stands ready to pursue further practical measures to rebuild trust and confidence.
The details of the provisional arrangement have not been disclosed.
The foreign ministerial meeting follows a series of clashes between Chinese and Filipino vessels near the shoal where the Philippines grounded a military ship to turn it into the outpost.
The shoal is claimed by Beijing and Manila but effectively controlled by the Philippines.
Wang told reporters after the talks with Manalo that the Philippine ship should not be there for a long time.