Philippines says any energy deals with China must respect its sovereignty

(Reuters) - The Philippines said on Sunday that any decision to pursue oil and gas cooperation ​with China would be made strictly in line ‌with its constitution and respect its sovereignty.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it had taken note of public ​statements by various groups on the proposed reopening ​of discussions between the Philippines and China ⁠on oil and gas cooperation in the South ​China Sea, where the two countries have long been ​embroiled in maritime disputes.

The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"Any decision to ​pursue, structure, or conclude an agreement on oil ​and gas cooperation, with China or any other foreign government, will ‌be ⁠made solely in accordance with the Philippine Constitution and the country's laws, jurisprudence and regulations, and in full assertion of its sovereign prerogatives," it said ​in a ​statement.

Late last ⁠month, the Philippines and China resumed talks over the disputed South China Sea, exploring ​preliminary steps toward oil and gas ​cooperation and ⁠addressing energy and fertilizer supply issues due to the Middle East conflict.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ⁠underscored ​the need to strengthen energy ​security and ensure affordable and stable energy supplies.