The China Coast Guard (CCG) announced on Friday that, with permission from the Chinese mainland, the Philippines dispatched a civilian vessel on Thursday to deliver supplies to its illegally grounded warship at Ren'ai Jiao in the South China Sea.
Liu Dejun, a spokesperson for the CCG, stated that the CCG conducted thorough verification and maintained oversight throughout the supply operation. He emphasized the importance of the Philippine side honoring its commitments to collaborate with China in maintaining control over the maritime situation.
\"The CCG will continue rights protection and law enforcement activities in China's Nansha Qundao, including Ren'ai Jiao, and its adjacent waters,\" Liu added.
In May 1999, the Philippines grounded the tank landing ship BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) at Ren'ai Jiao. Despite immediate protests from the Chinese mainland and repeated promises from the Philippines to tow the vessel away, the warship remains in place after 25 years.
The recent supply mission marks a rare instance of cooperation between the two nations regarding the disputed waters, highlighting the ongoing tensions and the delicate balance of power in the region.
Reference(s):
China permits Philippines to supply grounded warship at Ren'ai Jiao
cgtn.com
