BEIJING: China’s Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned the Philippines’ attempts to deliver construction materials to its illegally “grounded” warship at Ren’ai Jiao, part of China’s Nansha Qundao, stating that the actions violated China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights. The incident occurred on October 22, when two Philippine civil vessels and two coast guard vessels intruded into the waters of Ren’ai Jiao without China’s permission.
According to China’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, the Philippines ignored warnings from the China Coast Guard (CCG) and proceeded to head towards Ren’ai Jiao’s lagoon, resulting in dangerous collisions with CCG ships enforcing law and Chinese fishing vessels engaged in regular fishing activities. The CCG responded with necessary law enforcement measures in line with domestic and international law to protect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime interests.
Dispute Between China and Philippines
Ren’ai Jiao, a part of China’s Nansha Qundao, has been at the center of a longstanding territorial dispute between China and the Philippines. The Philippines had previously pledged to tow away the military vessel “grounded” at Ren’ai Jiao but instead attempted large-scale repairs and reinforcements, a move viewed by China as a breach of international law and regional peace.
China has emphasized its patience and restraint concerning Ren’ai Jiao, engaging in extensive communication with the Philippines at various levels and channels. Despite China’s efforts, the Philippines continued to send vessels into the area, spreading disinformation and exacerbating tensions. China called on the Philippines to adhere to its commitments, cease provocations at sea, and remove the illegally “grounded” warship promptly.
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China urged the Philippines to honor its promise, cease actions that could endanger peace and stability in the South China Sea, and respect the territorial sovereignty and maritime rights of China. The Foreign Ministry reiterated China’s determination to take necessary measures to protect its territorial sovereignty and maritime interests in accordance with domestic and international law.
