China's foreign minister has warned his Philippine counterpart that bilateral relations are facing serious difficulties due to their countries' deepening confrontation over a territorial dispute in the South China Sea. But he also called for dialogue to resolve the issue.

There has been increasing friction between Beijing and Manila over a series of incidents in the South China Sea since August. Their vessels have clashed in the waters, and China Coast Guard vessels turned their water cannons on Philippine military resupply boats.

China's foreign ministry said Wang Yi and Enrique Manalo held a phone conversation over the issue on Wednesday.

Wang accused the Philippines of causing the dispute by changing its stance and policies.

But he also said the two nations are neighbors separated only by narrow waters, and the two sides should resolve disputes through dialogue.

The remarks may reflect China's intention to avoid a decisive confrontation with the Philippines as Manila has been seeking closer cooperation with the United States and Japan.

Officials in Beijing say the two top diplomats have agreed to hold talks at an early date.