China tells Philippines to stop BRP Sierra Madre repairs: Reserves right to take further actions

From Ang Malaya (Jul 15): China tells Philippines to stop BRP Sierra Madre repairs: Reserves right to take further actions

After the Philippine Navy confirmed minor repairs are being done in BRP Sierra Madre at Ayunging Shoal, the government of China is telling Philippines to stop what it called ‘illegal activities’ and tow away the grounded vessel.

“The Chinese side is resolute in safeguarding territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. China once again urges the Philippines to immediately stop all illegal activities that infringe upon China’s sovereignty and maritime rights, and honor its commitment of towing away the vessel,” Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said.

“China reserves the right to take further actions,” she added.

The Chinese spokesperson said, with the repairs being done, “the Philippines not only refuses to fulfill its commitment of towing away the vessel, but also aggravates the situation by carrying out illegal activities in an attempt to permanently occupy the Ren’ai Jiao (Ayungin Shoal/Second Thomas Shoal).”

Philippine Navy spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo earlier said minor repairs in BRP Sierra Madre ensure that troops deployed in the vessel are not neglected.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/07/15/12195-china-tells-philippines-to-stop-brp-sierra-madre-repair-reserves-right-to-take-further-actions