China’s President Xi Jinping is expected to miss the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Manila as the Philippines and China remain in a tug of war over the South China Sea.
The Philippine government has said Chinese Premier Li Qiang will be heading Beijing’s delegation to the Xi Jinping Manila Summit discussion, putting the spotlight on the event.
The summit, which will take place on November 16–18, 2026, is set against the backdrop of escalating tensions regarding maritime security and regional diplomacy.
Why Xi Jinping May Skip the Manila ASEAN Summit
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs explained that the ASEAN summit is not attended by the president, but the country’s top official. Beijing is expected to be represented by Premier Li Qiang, but this has not yet been confirmed. The absence of Xi would therefore not imply a boycott, but would rather be in keeping with the diplomatic tradition.
Philippines-China Maritime Disputes Continue to Escalate
Tensions persist between Manila and Beijing over their South China Sea claims. Diplomatic talks have become more heated in recent months, after conflicts between maritime officials. The Philippines also denied China of its participation in ASEAN defense talks because of its obstruction, according to the Chinese accusation.
Manila Seeks Diplomatic Engagement Despite Rising Tensions
The Philippine government led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hopes the summit will include Chinese leadership. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said that they hope direct engagement can help solve regional disagreements. Diplomatic talks stay vital despite ongoing maritime disputes, Manila says.
What Xi Jinping’s Absence Could Mean for ASEAN Relations
The fact that Xi is likely to be away means that direct presidential talks may be more limited, but China will still be involved in talks via Li Qiang. Even if the summit fails to materialise into a South China Sea Code of Conduct, it could help accelerate discussions on the issue, as long as the leaders in the region focus on cooperation rather than confrontation.
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