China urged the European Union to refrain from interfering in its maritime dispute with the Philippines following remarks made during a recent EU-Philippines diplomatic meeting.
“China firmly opposes any unilateral actions, infringements or provocations and is committed to safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines said yesterday in a statement.
The embassy responded to a joint statement from the EU and the Philippines that criticized China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea.
During the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling.
They also raised concerns about what they described as China’s illegal and aggressive behavior toward Philippine vessels and aircraft in contested waters.
China dismissed these concerns, stating that its claims in the West Philippines Sea are grounded in “history” and recognized by international law, including the UN Charter.
“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,” the spokesperson said.
The embassy claimed that the overall situation in the West Philippine Sea remains stable and that freedom of navigation and overflight has not been affected.
China attributed recent tensions in the area to unspecified unilateral actions and provocations by other parties.
It reaffirmed its position that it will continue to safeguard its territorial and maritime rights “in accordance with law and regulations.”
“We also call on the Philippines not to bring external forces,” it concluded.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Don’t bring EU to WPS dispute, China spox pleads”
