Diplomatic Rifts: Philippines Challenges China’s Job Threats

The Philippines strongly criticizes the Chinese Embassy's statement suggesting potential job losses due to diplomatic tensions. The exchange follows maritime confrontations in the South China Sea. Recent heated diplomatic exchanges have led to calls for China’s ambassador to be recalled, heightening tensions between the two nations.

The Philippines has expressed strong opposition to a recent statement by the Chinese Embassy in Manila, which hinted that escalating diplomatic tensions could lead to the loss of millions of jobs. This comes amid a series of maritime disagreements in the South China Sea between the two nations.

According to the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs, the statement from the Chinese Embassy carried coercive undertones, suggesting that economic cooperation might be used as leverage. This sentiment followed calls from some Filipino senators for the recall of China's ambassador, further straining bilateral relations.

While the Chinese Embassy has yet to respond to these claims, the Philippines has accused China of aggressive actions in its exclusive economic zones. Meanwhile, China accuses the Philippines of encroaching on its claimed territories, intensifying the diplomatic standoff.

(With inputs from agencies.)