China Warns EU Against Interference in South China Sea Disputes
The Chinese Embassy in Manila has firmly warned the European Union (EU) not to interfere in the territorial and maritime issues involving the Philippines in the South China Sea. The embassy emphasized that the EU “has no standing” in these disputes since it is not a party to the conflict.
In a statement released on Thursday, June 5, the embassy spokesperson stressed, “The EU is not a party to the South China Sea disputes and therefore has no standing to interfere in maritime disputes between China and the Philippines, nor to criticize China’s legitimate efforts to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.”
The Chinese Embassy urged the EU to respect China’s sovereignty and maritime rights in the South China Sea and to avoid actions that could increase tensions in the region. The statement also called on the Philippines to refrain from involving external forces in the disputes and to return to dialogue and consultation with China as the proper way to manage differences.
Diplomatic Tensions Rise After EU Official’s Visit
This warning came shortly after the visit of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas. During her visit, Kallas condemned any use of coercion in the South China Sea and reaffirmed the EU’s support for the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling.
However, China maintains that its claims in the South China Sea are grounded in international law and consistent with the UN Charter. The embassy argued that the disputes between Beijing and Manila are matters of territorial sovereignty, which fall outside the scope of UNCLOS.
China Rejects 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling
China once again rejected the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling, which invalidated the basis of its nine-dash-line claim. The embassy claimed the ruling violated the principle of state consent, exceeded the tribunal’s jurisdiction, and disregarded the law. The statement concluded, “As such, the award is unlawful, null and void, and entirely without legal effect. China does not accept or recognize the award and will not accept any claims or actions based on it.”
Despite reports of harassment incidents involving Chinese ships and Philippine vessels, including maritime research teams, the embassy stated the situation in the disputed territories remains “generally stable.” It also insisted that freedom of navigation and overflight in the area has never been a problem.
Background: China’s Broad Maritime Claims
China claims nearly the entire South China Sea, including the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of neighboring countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei. These claims are based on a 1947 map featuring vague dashes that Beijing asserts outline its maritime territories.
The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea continue to pose challenges for regional security and international diplomacy. The Chinese Embassy’s recent statement underscores the firm stance Beijing takes in asserting its sovereignty and rejecting external interference.
For more news and updates on South China Sea disputes, visit Filipinokami.com.