Tensions flared this week as the Chinese mainland urged the Philippines to immediately halt what it described as infringement, provocations and vilification in the waters around Xianbin Jiao.
At a regular press briefing on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun responded to reports of recent actions by groups of Philippine vessels near Xianbin Jiao, part of the Nansha Qundao over which the Chinese mainland claims indisputable sovereignty.
On December 12, Manila organized a large number of ships in an apparent attempt to provoke and create trouble around the atoll. Some vessels intruded into the lagoon of Xianbin Jiao, disregarded repeated warnings from the Chinese mainland, and carried out dangerous maneuvers, including sudden course deviations.
Philippine personnel even threatened China Coast Guard officers with knives during what the Chinese mainland calls lawful rights-defending operations. Guo condemned these actions as serious infringements on sovereignty and rights, violations of international law and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and acts that sabotage maritime peace and stability.
Guo emphasized that the Chinese mainland's necessary measures to safeguard territorial sovereignty and maritime rights are lawful, professional and restrained. He also pointed out that the United States, not being a party to the dispute, has no right to interfere and should stop making fact-distorting and provocative remarks.
Analysts say this incident highlights the fragility of stability in one of the world's busiest sea lanes and underscores the need for dialogue and strict adherence to existing conduct frameworks. The coming days will test Manila's willingness to de-escalate and seek common ground, while the Chinese mainland remains firm in its resolve to protect its interests.
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China urges Philippines to stop its infringement, provocations at sea
cgtn.com