In a significant diplomatic move, China has summoned the Philippine ambassador to express strong objections to newly enacted Philippine laws governing maritime zones and archipelagic sea lanes. This action underscores the escalating tensions in the South China Sea region.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the \"Philippine Maritime Zones Act\" unlawfully incorporates China's Huangyan Dao and most of the Nansha Qundao islands and reefs into the Philippines' maritime jurisdiction. Mao emphasized that this act seeks to reinforce the disputed arbitral award on the South China Sea through domestic legislation.
\"This move severely violates China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea. We strongly condemn and firmly oppose it,\" Mao declared. She further highlighted that China's claims in the South China Sea are firmly rooted in history and international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
China urges the Philippines to respect its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights, cease any unilateral actions that may escalate the dispute, and maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea. Mao also noted that the \"Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act\" is inconsistent with international law and International Maritime Organization resolutions, calling on the Philippines to adhere to international legal standards.
The tit-for-tat diplomatic exchanges reflect the ongoing struggle for control and influence over the strategically vital South China Sea, a region rich in resources and crucial for international shipping routes.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
