NNA - The Philippines and China agreed on Tuesday to "de-escalate tensions" over the South China Sea, Manila said, following a violent clash in the disputed waters.

"The two sides discussed their respective positions on Ayungin Shoal and affirmed their commitment to de-escalate tensions without prejudice to their respective positions," the Philippine foreign ministry said in a statement after a meeting of vice foreign ministers in Manila, using the Philippine name for Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands. -- AFP

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