27-9-2024 (BEIJING) China has issued a forceful admonition to the Philippines, urging it to cease what Beijing perceives as provocative actions in the contested South China Sea. The warning comes amidst escalating tensions between the two nations over territorial claims in the region.
Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesman for China’s Ministry of National Defence, delivered the stark message during a press conference in Beijing on Thursday. His comments were a direct response to recent statements and actions by Philippine officials regarding the South China Sea dispute.
Zhang’s remarks were prompted by reports that the Philippine Coast Guard intends to dispatch another vessel to Xianbin Reef, following the departure of its ship No. 9701, which had been anchored in the area since April. The spokesman emphasised that the withdrawal of vessel No. 9701 from the lagoon of Xianbin Reef was “the only right way forward” for the Philippines, asserting that such action would contribute to restoring stability in the affected waters.
The Chinese defence spokesman also addressed claims made by the Philippine defence secretary, who reportedly suggested that any Chinese attempt to remove a Philippine ship, illegally grounded at Ren’ai Reef for 25 years, would be tantamount to an act of war.
Zhang reiterated China’s stance on the matter, stating, “China has indisputable sovereignty over Nansha Islands and its adjacent waters, including Ren’ai Reef and Xianbin Reef.” He warned that China would “take firm countermeasures against any act that infringes China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.”
The spokesman further cautioned that actions violating the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and undermining regional peace and stability would not be tolerated. He urged the Philippine side to avoid “illusion and miscalculation” and to refrain from engaging in “risky and futile provocations”.
