China reiterated on Monday that there was no meeting or exchange between the Chinese and Japanese foreign ministers at the China-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, the Philippines.

Representatives attending the China-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting pose for a group photo in Manila, the Philippines, July 22, 2026. (Photo: Xinhua)

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular press briefing in Beijing after Japanese foreign minister claimed that he had exchanged greetings and held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during their stay in Manila.

"I can once again state clearly that during the stay in Manila, there were no arrangements for Foreign Minister Wang Yi to meet with Japanese officials, nor was there any brief on-site exchange," Lin said.