MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will have a bilateral meeting with his Chinese counterpart on Thursday on the sidelines of his participation in the 29th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM).

Prior to his attendance at the ASEAN Summits in Cambodia last week, President Marcos said the West Philippine Sea will be one of the top agenda if he meets with the Chinese president.

The chief executive said that it’s impossible for him to talk to China without mentioning the West Philippine Sea issue.

The President also pushed for the adoption of a binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea during the summit in Cambodia, noting, however, that involved parties must first agree on a status quo.

During President Marcos’ attendance at the ASEAN-East Asia Summit, he renewed his call to make the South China Sea a sea of peace, security, stability and prosperity and not an area of armed conflict or geopolitical discord.

Aside from a bilateral meeting with Chinese officials, President Marcos will also participate in the APEC CEO Summit and will join his counterparts at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting Gala Dinner. (OPS)