Beijing, October 2023 — Tensions in the South China Sea have escalated as China has called on the Philippines to immediately remove its coast guard vessel from the waters adjacent to Xianbin Jiao, part of China's Nansha Qundao.
Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian addressed the issue at a press conference on Thursday, emphasizing China's “indisputable sovereignty” over the Nansha Qundao, including Xianbin Jiao, and the surrounding waters. “Since April, a Philippine Coast Guard vessel, MRRV-9701, has been unlawfully anchored at Xianbin Jiao and has remained there for an extended period, seriously infringing on China’s sovereignty,” Wu stated.
Wu accused the Philippines of violating international law and the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, thereby threatening regional peace and stability. He highlighted that China has “firmly opposed this behavior” and has lodged strong protests multiple times.
“The Philippines’ attempt to establish a long-term presence at Xianbin Jiao has opened a Pandora’s box that worsens the situation in the South China Sea,” Wu said, noting that regional countries have strongly opposed such actions.
According to Wu, since August 19, the Philippines has repeatedly sent coast guard vessels attempting to breach Xianbin Jiao. During these encounters, he alleged that Philippine vessels “deliberately rammed Chinese law enforcement ships in a dangerous manner,” prompting China to take necessary measures in accordance with the law.
Wu affirmed China’s commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation but cautioned that “patience has its limits.” He urged the Philippines to “take immediate action to withdraw its vessel and personnel from Xianbin Jiao, restoring its uninhabited and unoccupied status.” He added that China would continue to take firm measures to safeguard its territorial and maritime rights.
The spokesperson also criticized the United States, labeling it as “the main instigator of the South China Sea situation and the greatest destroyer of peace and stability in the region.” Wu claimed that U.S. encouragement and support have emboldened the Philippines to provoke China repeatedly.
“The U.S.’s attempt to intimidate China with the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty is futile and will only arouse greater indignation and resolve among the Chinese people,” Wu asserted.
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China urges Philippines to immediately remove vessel from Xianbin Jiao
cgtn.com
