China asserted “indisputable sovereignty” over islands in the disputed waters and expressed significant concern and strong condemnation of the US and Philippine positions on the South China Sea problem.
Following the issuance of the joint statement from the US and the Philippines and the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue boosting the two countries’ ties, Beijing made the remark on Wednesday.
China vehemently disagreed with the US’s decision to stand with the Philippines against any intimidation or coercion in the South China Sea.
First and foremost, let me say that China is deeply concerned about and strongly disagrees with the joint statement issued by the US and the Philippines, according to Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
“The South China Sea Islands and the surrounding waters are within China’s undeniable sovereignty.
The US and Philippines misrepresent and disparage the legitimate and legal maritime law enforcement efforts.
The Chinese side in their joint statement, and they even falsely accuse China. We vehemently condemn this,” he continued.
Additionally, Wenbin criticised the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Award, which affirms Philippine sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, a region of the South China Sea that China claims.
He asserted that the decision “gravely violates international laws, including UNCLOS” and is “illegal, null, and void.”
“China’s position of not accepting or recognising it is clear and firm,” he continued.
The Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites continue to be opposed by China.
“We have often highlighted China’s position with regard to the new military base locations to which the Philippines grants the US access.
Facts are more persuasive than words. The purpose of those places is more than clear based on the placements of the new military bases, according to Wenbin.
Chinese officials have consistently cautioned against increasing military ties with the US, arguing that doing so may be detrimental to the Philippines.
But the US and Philippines say they haven’t decided how much the new EDCA sites will be used and that this is still up for debate.
