China reaffirms its sovereignty claims in the South China Sea , rejecting third-party intervention in its maritime dispute with the Philippines and urging India to respect its stance.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian asserts that maritime disputes are bilateral issues and emphasizes non-interference from external parties.
China calls on India to acknowledge the facts of the South China Sea disputes and to respect China’s sovereignty and maritime interests in the region.
The remarks follow Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s affirmation of support for the Philippines’ sovereignty during his official visit to Manila.
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Jaishankar underscores India’s backing of the Philippines in upholding its national sovereignty and expresses interest in enhancing cooperation, particularly in defence and security.
The South China Sea dispute involves multiple claimants, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, each asserting territorial claims over the region.
Tensions escalate between China and the Philippines as coast guard vessels from both countries clash near the Second Thomas Shoal, intensifying the longstanding dispute.
China accuses the Philippines of deliberately grounding a warship in the area in 1999, while Manila accuses Chinese coast guards of obstructing lawful activities in its exclusive economic zone.
The Philippines condemns China’s interference as a violation of its sovereign rights and jurisdiction, sparking renewed tensions in the region.
The dispute underscores ongoing geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea, as countries vie for control over strategic maritime territories.
