Tensions continue to simmer in the South China Sea as disputes between the Philippines and China escalate. China’s response to India’s recent statement on the matter has raised eyebrows, with the Dragon urging respect for its sovereignty claims and maritime interests.
In a statement issued on Tuesday
China appealed to India to respect its claims and maritime interests concerning the ongoing dispute between the two nations. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Lin Jian, responded to a comment made by Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, stating that India supports the sovereignty of the Philippines.
Lin Jian emphasized, “Maritime disputes are issues between relevant countries. No third party has the right to interfere in any way.” China stressed the importance of directly addressing the facts and truths regarding the South China Sea issue with the involved parties while respecting China’s regional sovereignty, maritime rights and interests, and the efforts of regional countries to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.
Visit to Manila and held discussions with Filipino Foreign Minister Enrico Manalo
At present, S. Jaishankar is on an official visit to Manila and held discussions with Filipino Foreign Minister Enrico Manalo. Prior to this, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar had expressed support for India’s firmness in maintaining its national sovereignty and exploring opportunities for cooperation, including defense and security, in new areas.
During his joint conference with Manalo, Jaishankar responded to a question about the dispute between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea, stating, “The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), 1982, is particularly important as the legal framework for the seas. All parties should fully abide by its provisions. I reiterate India’s support for maintaining the national sovereignty of the Philippines.”
What is the South China Sea Dispute?
China claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, while the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan assert their claims over maritime territories. Currently, there is a dispute between China and the Philippines, as both countries are asserting their claims to the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, which both consider their own. China complained last weekend that the Philippines had sent two warships and a supply ship to deliver construction materials to an old warship stranded on a reef.
China alleges that the Philippines deliberately grounded an old warship in 1999. Meanwhile, Manila has accused Chinese coast guard vessels of blocking its ships and using water cannons. Philippine Foreign Ministry spokesperson Teresita Daza said China’s constant encroachment in its exclusive economic zone is unacceptable. According to media reports quoting Daza, “It violates Philippine sovereign rights and jurisdictional areas.” (With inputs from PTI)