At a UN Security Council debate on maritime security, China's charge d'affaires Geng Shuang pushed back against U.S. accusations, branding Washington as the "biggest threat" to peace in the South China Sea.
Geng directly refuted remarks by Dorothy Shea, the U.S. representative to the UN, who had criticized China's activities in the contested waters. He argued that under the banner of "freedom of navigation," the United States frequently dispatches military vessels to flex its muscles and stir up confrontation among regional players.
Rejecting the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling as "illegal and invalid," Geng said China does not accept or recognize the verdict. Instead, he emphasized Beijing's commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation "based on respect for historical facts and international law."
Highlighting ongoing cooperation with ASEAN partners, Geng expressed confidence in building "a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation" across these vital shipping lanes.
He also urged the U.S. to honor its commitment to the one-China principle after Shea raised concerns about cross-strait tensions. "We hope that the United States can join other countries in playing a constructive role in maintaining maritime security," he said, contrasting Washington's approach with statements from the UN secretary-general and other delegates that focused on joint security efforts.
Looking ahead, Geng called on the international community to strengthen global ocean governance and uphold a "maritime community with a shared future," positioning China as both a defender of stability and a promoter of sustainable development at sea.
Reference(s):
U.S., biggest threat to South China Sea peace: Chinese envoy
cgtn.com
