The Chinese Ministry of Defense called on the Philippines to immediately stop provocative actions in the South China Sea, after Philippine vessels entered the waters of Huangyan Dao earlier this month.
Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang responded to a media query by highlighting that more than 10 Philippine public vessels had illegally intruded into what the Chinese mainland considers its inherent territory. These vessels were subsequently expelled by the China Coast Guard.
"Huangyan Dao is the territory of the Chinese mainland," Zhang stated, noting that it lies beyond the limits of Philippine territory as defined by international treaties. He accused the Philippine side of repeatedly infringing on China's sovereignty and destabilizing regional peace.
"We warn the Philippine side to immediately stop any provocative acts before it's too late," Zhang warned. He affirmed that the Chinese mainland will continue to take resolute measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.
Reference(s):
China urges Philippines to stop provocative actions in South China Sea
cgtn.com
