On January 17, 2024, Assistant Foreign Minister Nong Rong co-chaired the Eighth Meeting of the China-Philippines Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea (BCM) with Undersecretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines Maria Theresa P. Lazaro in Shanghai.

The two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the situation in the South China Sea and maritime issues of their respective concern. The two sides agreed to unswervingly deliver on the important common understandings reached between the two heads of state on maritime issues. They stressed that peace and stability in the South China Sea serves the common interests of China and the Philippines and is also the common goal of countries in the region. The two sides reaffirmed that the South China Sea dispute is not the entirety of bilateral relations and believe that maintaining communication and dialogue is essential to maintaining maritime peace and stability. The two sides agreed to further improve the maritime communication mechanism, continue to properly manage maritime disputes and differences through friendly consultation, properly handle maritime emergencies, in particular, the situation on the ground at Ren'ai Jiao, and constantly promote practical maritime cooperation, so as to create favorable conditions for the sound and stable development of China-Philippines relations.

China has also lodged solemn representations with the Philippines on Taiwan-related issues, demanding that the Philippine side should earnestly abide by the one-China principle and immediately stop its wrong words and deeds on Taiwan-related issues. The Philippines reiterates its adherence to the one-China policy and will continue to implement the policy in earnest.

The meeting was attended by representatives from competent authorities of diplomacy, national defense, natural resources, ecology and environment, transport, agriculture, and coast guard of China and the Philippines.