China has expressed strong opposition to planned maritime boundary talks between Japan and the Philippines, labeling the initiative as "totally illegal and invalid."
During a regular press briefing on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, addressed a recent joint statement issued by the leaders of Japan and the Philippines. The statement announced the launch of maritime delimitation talks involving the Taiwan region, a move that has drawn immediate condemnation from Beijing.
"There is only one China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China," Zhu emphasized, underscoring the fundamental position of the Chinese government regarding sovereignty.
According to the spokesperson, the waters involved in the proposed talks are located east of Taiwan island. Zhu stated that these planned delimitation negotiations seriously infringe upon China's maritime rights and interests, violating both international law and the basic norms governing international relations.
The spokesperson further highlighted the importance of national unity, noting that compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to the Chinese nation and should jointly safeguard national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the overall interests of the Chinese nation.
Additionally, Zhu criticized the Democratic Progressive Party authorities, accusing them of betraying national interests by relying on external forces. The spokesperson asserted that such actions would ultimately be rejected by compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and judged by history.
Reference(s):
China says Japan-Philippines maritime boundary talks 'totally illegal'
cgtn.com
