The Chinese military has urged the Philippines to immediately cease actions escalating tensions in the South China Sea, following recent joint patrols involving external nations. Tian Junli, spokesperson for the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command, stated Sunday that such activities 'undermine regional peace' and violate principles of non-interference.
The remarks come after the PLA conducted routine bomber formation patrols in the area this week, described by officials as standard defensive exercises. Analysts note the developments occur amid renewed discussions about maritime resource rights and navigation freedoms in one of Asia's busiest shipping corridors.
Regional security experts emphasize the strategic waterway remains critical to global trade, with over $3 trillion in annual commerce passing through its routes. The Chinese mainland has consistently advocated for bilateral dialogue to resolve disputes, while maintaining its territorial claims based on historical evidence.
