China demands Philippines cease South China Sea provocations

The spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Defense, Wu Qian, has urged the Philippines to stop violations and provocations at the Ren'ai Reef in the South China Sea. "The incident was entirely provoked and troubled by the Filipino side," he stressed.

"On March 23, a Filipino warship entered the waters next to China's Ren'ai Jiao, attempting to resupply an illegal warship that had become stranded. The Chinese Coast Guard (...) firmly blocked Filipino attempts at violating rights and provoking." - the statement reads.

The Chinese side also emphasized that "the incident was entirely provoked and troubled by the Filipino side, and China's actions in response were lawful."

The defense ministry spokesperson urged the Philippines "to stop all statements that could lead to an intensification of conflicts and escalation of the situation, as well as to stop all violations and provocations. China will continue to take measures to decisively protect its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests," he added.

There is an ongoing territorial dispute between China and the Philippines, along with other countries in the region, over the Spratly (Nansha) Archipelago in the South China Sea. These islands are sought after for their abundant biological resources, strategic position at the intersection of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, and potential oil and gas resources.

The presence of United States warships, which navigate through the area, is also contested. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs contends that these actions by the USA compromise China's sovereignty and security. On the other hand, Washington asserts that the United States will navigate wherever international law permits.

In January, the Filipino Secretary of Defense declared plans to enhance military cooperation with the United States and its allies, motivated by China’s increasingly aggressive behavior. According to the Secretary, boosting military capabilities will better contribute to regional stability.

That same month, the Foreign Ministers of the Philippines and China concurred on fostering cooperation and peacefully addressing incidents in the South China Sea to ease tensions in the area.

Source: Ria Novosti