China Warns Philippines Over South China Sea Provocations
China's military has issued a stern warning to the Philippines against escalating tensions in the South China Sea, following joint military exercises involving the United States and Japan. This comes as Beijing advances plans to establish a nature reserve in the disputed region, further solidifying its control.
China's Warning and Military Actions
A spokesperson for the Chinese military’s Southern Theater Command directly addressed the Philippines, criticizing their joint drills with the US and Japan in the vital waterway. The spokesperson stated, “We sternly warn the Philippine side to immediately stop provoking incidents and escalating tensions in the South China Sea, as well as bringing in external forces for backing such efforts that are destined to be futile.” The statement further added that “Any attempt to stir up trouble or disrupt the situation will not succeed.”
Simultaneously, the Chinese military has conducted a "routine patrol" in the disputed waters, marking the second such operation in under two weeks. Senior Colonel Tian Junli, a spokesman for the People’s Liberation Army’s Southern Theatre Command, accused Manila of "spreading illegal claims" and undermining regional stability.
US-Philippines-Japan Joint Exercises
The warning from China follows joint maritime exercises conducted by the US, Japan, and the Philippines in the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone. According to the US Asia Pacific Command, these exercises, held from Thursday to Saturday, were intended to strengthen regional cooperation and support a free and open Asia Pacific region. The US emphasized its commitment to freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as respect for maritime rights under international law.
Scarborough Shoal Nature Reserve Plan
Adding to the tensions, China’s State Council recently announced plans to establish a 3,500-hectare nature reserve on the disputed islet of Scarborough Shoal, a territory claimed by both China and the Philippines. The Philippines has strongly protested this move, receiving backing from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who condemned it as a "coercive attempt to advance China’s interests at the expense of its neighbors and regional stability." Rubio added that Beijing was attempting to "push expansive maritime and territorial claims."
Manila's Response and Regional Implications
While Philippine maritime and military authorities have not immediately commented on the latest warnings, the situation remains tense. China's increasing military activity and its nature reserve plan are viewed by many as attempts to assert greater control over the strategic South China Sea. This situation has significant implications for regional stability and freedom of navigation in a vital global trade route.
