- Summary Points
- China Coast Guard claims indisputable sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal, countering Philippines’ intrusions.
- Recent incident involved warning Philippine personnel who illegally entered the area.
- Tensions between China and the Philippines over South China Sea disputes have been frequent.
The China Coast Guard has released a statement asserting its “indisputable sovereignty” over the Scarborough Shoal and its adjacent waters, a territory also claimed by the Philippines. This declaration follows a recent incident on January 28, where the Coast Guard reported that four Philippine personnel illegally intruded into the area and were subsequently warned to leave.
This incident is the latest in a series of accusations and confrontations between China and the Philippines over disputed territories in the South China Sea. China’s claim of sovereignty over almost the entirety of the South China Sea has led to heightened tensions with neighboring countries, who argue that China’s territorial claims encroach upon their exclusive economic zones.
The statement from the China Coast Guard emphasized their commitment to “defend and enforce” the law in waters under the country’s jurisdiction. This stance includes routine patrols in the South China Sea, even amid escalating tensions with the Philippines. Recently, the Philippines conducted a joint military patrol in the region with the United States, an action that has drawn criticism from China.
The China Coast Guard reiterated its determination to firmly safeguard national sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. This ongoing dispute over territorial boundaries in the South China Sea remains a complex and contentious issue, involving overlapping claims and interests of several nations in the region. The situation continues to be a focal point of regional and international attention, highlighting the delicate balance of power and diplomatic relations in Southeast Asia.