China has issued a strong condemnation of planned maritime boundary talks between Japan and the Philippines, describing the move as "totally illegal and invalid."
During a regular press briefing, Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, responded to a joint statement recently issued by the leaders of Japan and the Philippines. The statement announced the initiation of maritime delimitation talks that involve the Taiwan region.
Zhu emphasized the "One China" principle, asserting that "there is only one China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China." The spokesperson highlighted that the waters targeted for the proposed talks are located east of the Taiwan island, meaning the negotiations seriously infringe upon China's maritime rights and interests.
According to the spokesperson, these planned negotiations violate international law and the basic norms governing international relations. Zhu further stated that compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to the Chinese nation and should work together to safeguard national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the overall interests of the Chinese nation.
The briefing also included sharp criticism of the Taiwan authorities, specifically the Democratic Progressive Party, accusing them of relying on external forces and betraying national interests. Zhu noted that such actions would ultimately be rejected by compatriots across the Taiwan Strait and judged by history.
Reference(s):
China says Japan-Philippines maritime boundary talks 'totally illegal'
cgtn.com
