Iran war could jumpstart cooperation between Beijing and Manila in South China Sea

Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz is prompting China and the Philippines to discuss joint development of oil and gas reserves in the disputed South China Sea. While talks show positive progress, experts note this cooperation is strategic preparation for future energy crises rather than a practical solution to current disruptions. The region's untapped energy resources remain largely inaccessible due to competing territorial claims and historical instability.