28-8-2024 (BEIJING) China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, has issued a stern warning to visiting US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan over Washington’s support for the Philippines in the ongoing South China Sea dispute. The admonition came during high-level talks in Beijing, where Sullivan is on a three-day diplomatic mission.
According to state broadcaster CCTV, Wang told Sullivan, “The United States must not use bilateral treaties as an excuse to undermine China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, nor should it support or condone the Philippines’s actions of infringement.” This statement underscores the escalating tensions in the region, particularly between Manila and Beijing over disputed reefs and waters.
The diplomatic exchange comes amidst a backdrop of increasing regional unease. In the past week, both Japan and the Philippines have accused China of raising tensions, with Tokyo alleging airspace violations and Manila labelling Beijing as the “biggest disrupter” of peace in Southeast Asia.
Wang emphasised China’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the South China Sea, a stance that has led to recent confrontations with Philippine vessels. Beijing claims it took “control measures” against two Philippine Coast Guard ships that it deemed to have “illegally” entered waters near a disputed shoal.
The talks also touched upon the sensitive issue of Taiwan. Wang stressed that Taiwan belongs to Beijing and that China “will certainly be unified.” He urged the US to “put into practice its commitment not to support Taiwan independence” and to “stop arming Taiwan.”
Sullivan’s visit marks the sixth meeting between the two diplomats in the past 18 months, highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage US-China relations. The discussions covered a range of global issues, including the situations in Ukraine, the Middle East, and the Korean Peninsula.
On the Ukraine crisis, Wang reiterated China’s commitment to advocating for peace and promoting dialogue. However, he warned against the US shifting responsibility onto China or imposing “illegal unilateral sanctions.”
