China has accused the Philippines of putting obstacles in the way of its participation in a meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The meeting, which is being hosted by the Philippines, began on October 28, 2026, and will conclude on October 30, 2026. According to a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Defense, the Philippines allowed some politicians to use their public positions for personal gain and put multiple obstacles in the way of China's participation in the expanded meeting of ASEAN defense ministers.
The Chinese spokesperson stated that this action undermines the principle of consensus among ASEAN countries and seriously contradicts the spirit of openness and inclusiveness of the summit. China had planned to send a high-level representative to the meeting but decided to send only its defense attaché to its embassy instead. Several countries, including the US, Japan, and Australia, sent their defense ministers to the meeting.
Philippine Defense Minister Gilbert Teodoro responded to China's accusations, stating that other countries in the ASEAN bloc do not share China's position. Teodoro said that China's stance does not represent the position of ASEAN. He added that Chinese officials expressed their views, which do not differ from their previous statements.
The ASEAN meeting is being held in Cebu City, Philippines, from October 28 to 30, 2026. The Philippines is a key player in ASEAN and has been involved in several territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea. The country has been a close ally of the US and has been critical of China's growing military presence in the region.
The US Defense Secretary proposed a new framework for defense cooperation with ASEAN countries during the meeting. The proposal aims to strengthen defense ties between the US and ASEAN countries and promote peace and stability in the region. The meeting's final statement called for unimpeded passage in the Strait of Malacca and other key waterways.
The ASEAN meeting comes at a time when China is increasingly assertive in its territorial claims in the South China Sea. The country has been involved in several territorial disputes with its neighbors, including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The disputes have raised concerns about the potential for conflict in the region.
The meeting concluded on October 30, 2026, with a statement calling for greater cooperation among ASEAN countries on defense and security issues. The statement also emphasized the importance of promoting peace and stability in the region and respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.
Key points
- China accuses Philippines of obstructing its participation in ASEAN meeting
- ASEAN meeting concludes with call for greater cooperation on defense and security issues
- Territorial disputes in South China Sea raise concerns about potential for conflict
