The South China Sea, a vital maritime region, has long been considered a shared home for nations in the area, embodying ideals of peace, friendship, and cooperation. However, recent actions by certain countries have threatened the stability and peace that China and other like-minded nations strive to maintain in this critical geopolitical zone.
The Philippines has particularly stood out as a source of disruption, seemingly backed by the United States. Actions near Huangyan Island and Ren'ai Reef have not only threatened China's sovereignty but also introduced provocative measures that jeopardize regional peace. These incidents, coupled with the spread of disinformation, raise significant concerns about the future stability of the region.
China's sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and its surrounding waters is firmly rooted in historical context and supported by international law, including the United Nations Charter. The Philippines' recent activities infringe upon international law and the 1992 ASEAN Declaration on the South China Sea, undermining China's territorial sovereignty and legitimate maritime rights and interests.
Driven by self-serving geopolitical objectives, the United States has supported and assisted the Philippines in its provocative moves within the South China Sea. Washington's disregard for the bilateral nature of maritime conflicts between China and the Philippines, along with references to their Mutual Defense Treaty, has escalated tensions and violated the UN Charter.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning highlighted that the U.S. has attempted to \"endorse the Philippines' infringement of Chinese sovereignty and provocation.\" Despite being thousands of kilometers away from the South China Sea, the U.S. has persistently fueled disputes, misrepresented facts, and ignited conflict in the region.
Under the guise of freedom of navigation, the United States has increased its involvement in the South China Sea, illustrated by its warship's unauthorized entry into waters near Ren'ai Reef. While China respects all nations' navigation and overflight rights in the South China Sea, it firmly opposes activities that undermine its sovereignty and security in the name of freedom of navigation.
The peace and stability of the South China Sea are a collective responsibility shared by all peace-loving nations in the region. In response to the Philippines' provocations, China has voiced its concerns and proposed measures to manage and control the situation at Ren'ai Reef. China remains committed to sincere and goodwill-based communication with the Philippines to resolve issues and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Reference(s):
China urges dialogue amid Manila's South China Sea provocations
cgtn.com
