- China warns the Philippines to seek dialogue amid rising tensions over maritime claims in the South China Sea.
- The Philippines protests aggressive actions by China, including the use of water cannons against civilian boats.
- International allies, including the US, express support for the Philippines, urging adherence to international law in resolving disputes.
Tensions escalate in the South China Sea
China has issued a warning to the Philippines, urging caution and seeking dialogue. It stressed that relations between the two countries are at a crucial juncture due to new confrontations between their coast guards over maritime claims. The heightened tensions stem from territorial disputes in the Spratly Islands, and recent incidents on Second Thomas Shoal have escalated tensions. Exchanges of harsh phone messages between Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong and his Philippine counterpart Theresa Lazaro, as well as Manila’s strong protest against China’s aggressive actions, underscored the intensity of the situation.
International reactions and diplomatic tensions
The Philippines accused China of using water cannons against its civilian boat, causing damage and injuring crew members. Manila summoned China’s chargé d’affaires to express its protest. China, which maintains claims to almost the entire South China Sea, including areas within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), responded that it had taken the necessary action against Philippine vessels violating its territorial waters. The incident has prompted the Philippines to consider further steps, with support gaining strength from the United States and other international allies who criticize China’s conduct and call for compliance with international law.
