Diplomatic Spat Escalates Over South China Sea Claims
A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson called on the Philippines to immediately cease actions that 'hype up' maritime disputes during a press briefing Thursday. The remarks followed Manila's insistence on continuing resupply missions at Ren'ai Jiao, a reef China claims as part of its Nansha Qundao territory.
Historical Context and Current Tensions
Spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized that the Philippines' prolonged stationing of a warship at Ren'ai Jiao violates both Chinese sovereignty and the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. 'China has consistently demanded the vessel's removal to restore the reef's original uninhabited state,' Guo stated.
Humanitarian Arrangements Under Strain
While acknowledging a provisional agreement allowing Philippine delivery of essential supplies to the grounded ship, Guo accused Manila of breaching trust by 'recent provocative acts transporting construction materials.' China maintains these actions undermine regional stability and cross-border cooperation frameworks.
Broader Implications for Asia-Pacific
The dispute highlights ongoing challenges in balancing territorial claims with multilateral agreements. Analysts suggest the situation could impact regional security dynamics and investor confidence in Southeast Asian maritime trade routes.
