Enrile hails appointment of ambassador, special envoys to China

Cagayan Rep. Jack Enrile welcomed the appointment of a Philippine ambassador to China and two other experienced individuals as special envoys, as he reiterated his position to exhaust all diplomatic channels in search for a resolution to the standoff over the Scarborough Shoal.

Enrile said the depth of experience of newly-appointed Philippine Ambassador to China Sonia Brady in dealing with Chinese counterparts bids well for the government’s efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the ongoing crisis.

The lawmaker also noted that the vast business networks of special ambassadors Domingo Lee and Cesar Zalamea will be vital in repairing – and even expanding – the country’s trade and tourism relations with the economic superpower.

“The appointments of our ambassador to China as well as two special envoys to help in the business front brings more confidence to the government’s efforts to come up with strategic options and solutions in the ongoing conflict with China,” Enrile said.

“Beyond this conflict, however, these appointments will prove crucial in improving not only our diplomatic relationship but also our trade and business ties with China which has emerged as the world’s biggest market.”

Earlier, Enrile has argued that the appointment of an expert in RP-China relations is vital in effectively pursuing the government’s position of exploiting all diplomatic channels to resolve the ongoing dispute over Scarborough Shoal, locally known as Panatag Shoal.

Enrile added that the Philippine government should also tackle the issue with Chinese authorities not only in military terms but also in economic and trade terms, China being one of the leading economies in the world with a population of more than 1.3 billion people.

“The appointment of Ambassador Brady and our two special ambassadors to improve our coordination with the Chinese government illustrates the administration’s regard for the country’s partnership with China,” Enrile said.

“In my opinion, this move has so far been the most positive action taken by the administration in its efforts to address the conflict over the Panatag Shoal and repair its effects on the country’s business relations with China.”