Key facts
- Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said diplomatic talks with China are not possible.
- Teodoro cited China's new anti-espionage laws as the reason for the breakdown in dialogue.
- The Philippines is reviewing its own laws to counter potential espionage activities.
- The country is also considering enhancing its counter-espionage capabilities.
Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has stated that diplomatic talks with China are currently not possible, citing Beijing's new anti-espionage laws as a significant barrier to dialogue.
Teodoro indicated that the Philippines is reviewing its own laws to counter potential espionage activities, suggesting a parallel effort to bolster national security measures.
The defence chief's remarks highlight the escalating tensions and lack of trust between the two nations, particularly in the context of regional security concerns.