The Department of Foreign Affairs to Investigate Reports of Illegal Activities by Diplomatic Officials
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has announced that it will be launching an investigation into reports of illegal and unlawful activities carried out by diplomatic officials. The DFA has made it clear that any such activities will be dealt with in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
This statement from the DFA comes in response to recent calls for the expulsion of a Chinese diplomat who was allegedly involved in wiretapping a high-ranking military officer during a discussion about the management of Ayungin Shoal. The DFA issued this statement on Monday, emphasizing the Philippine government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law both domestically and internationally.
The Philippines has long been a strong advocate of rules-based governance and is dedicated to respecting and upholding international law. The DFA highlighted the country’s support for various international agreements, including the United Nations Charter, the Vienna Conventions governing inter-state relations, and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982.
Diplomatic Duties and Expectations
The DFA stressed that foreign diplomats in the Philippines are granted the necessary liberties to carry out their diplomatic duties. However, it is expected that they conduct themselves with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, working towards common interests and mutually beneficial outcomes.
The department also expressed its commitment to advancing cooperation with all countries, indicating its focus on fostering positive relationships and collaboration on various fronts.
In a statement released on May 9, the DFA made it clear that diplomats should respect the laws of the host country and refrain from interfering in its internal affairs. This serves as a reminder to all diplomatic personnel that they are bound by the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, particularly Article 41, which emphasizes the duty to respect the laws and regulations of the receiving state.
Chinese Response and Calls for Restraint
The Chinese embassy in Manila released a transcript of a telephone conversation between an unnamed Chinese diplomat and Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, the chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command. The conversation allegedly discussed a “new model” for managing Ayungin Shoal.
In response, the DFA reiterated the importance of diplomats strictly adhering to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The department emphasized Article 41 of the convention, which explicitly states that diplomats have a duty not to interfere in the internal affairs of the receiving state.
Lin Jian, the spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, called on the Philippines to ensure that Chinese diplomats can carry out their duties without hindrance and to refrain from provocative actions. He urged the Philippines to acknowledge the facts and avoid any reckless moves that may have negative consequences for the country itself.
In conclusion, the DFA’s commitment to investigating illegal activities by diplomatic officials demonstrates the Philippine government’s dedication to upholding the rule of law. By emphasizing adherence to international agreements and calling for respectful conduct from foreign diplomats, the DFA aims to maintain positive diplomatic relations while ensuring that the country’s sovereignty and internal affairs are respected. The response from the Chinese embassy highlights the need for open dialogue and mutual respect between nations to resolve any disputes or misunderstandings that may arise.
Source: The Manila Times