China has accused the Philippines of provoking a maritime incident near the Nansha Islands, following a collision between vessels from both sides in contested waters. The China Coast Guard (CCG) stated that two Philippine government ships entered waters adjacent to Tiexian Jiao without authorization on Sunday, leading to a collision with a Chinese vessel during what Beijing called a 'dangerous maneuver.'
CCG spokesperson Liu Dejun said Philippine vessel 3003 ignored repeated warnings and approached the Chinese ship 21559 recklessly, resulting in the clash. 'The responsibility lies entirely with the Philippine side,' Liu emphasized, describing China's response as lawful and professional.
Liu reiterated China's 'indisputable sovereignty' over the Nansha Islands and surrounding waters, condemning Manila's actions as a violation of regional stability and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. The statement urged the Philippines to cease 'infringements and provocations,' warning that China will continue enforcing its maritime claims.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the resource-rich South China Sea, a critical waterway where multiple nations have overlapping territorial claims. Analysts note that such confrontations risk escalating regional disputes amid competing strategic interests.
