China has warned that it could bar more Philippine officials from entering its territory if the Philippines declares Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan persona non grata, amid controversy over his remarks about the military strength of the two countries.
In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said it would not welcome Philippine officials into China in response to a possible move against its ambassador.
The warning follows earlier entry bans on Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino.
The controversy centers on Jing’s statements about the military capabilities of China and the Philippines, raising concerns about the potential impact on diplomatic relations between Manila and Beijing.
The Chinese Embassy called on both countries to resolve their disagreements through dialogue. It also urged the Philippines to maintain balanced foreign relations with China and the United States amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
The statement highlights continuing diplomatic disagreements between the two countries, particularly over regional security and their positions on the disputed waters.
Declaring a diplomat persona non grata is a measure that can require a foreign representative to leave the host country. However, the supplied report does not state that the Philippines has formally declared Jing persona non grata.
China’s warning indicates that additional Philippine officials could face entry restrictions if the move proceeds. The embassy also reiterated its call for dialogue to address the dispute.
