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China and the Philippines Meet amid Tensions Over Disputed Islands

Philippine Settlers in the Crosshairs of a Possible Conflict with China

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — China and the Philippines held a crucial meeting Tuesday to try to ease mounting tensions following their worst confrontation in the contested South China Sea.

More than 200 civilian settlers on a contested island in the South China Sea find themselves on the frontier of a possible conflict with China.

Two Countries Reach a Deal

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — China and the Philippines reached a deal they hope will end confrontations at the most fiercely disputed shoal in the South China Sea.

The two countries agreed to withdraw their ships from the area and establish a joint patrol system.

Decades-Long Confrontation

The confrontation between Manila and Beijing over submerged shoals in the South China Sea has been going on for decades.

China claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, a claim that is disputed by several other countries, including the Philippines.

US Warning to China

US President Joe Biden has warned China that the US will defend the Philippines in case of any attack in the disputed South China Sea.