China says nations outside region shouldn't 'interfere' in sea dispute

From CNN Philippines (Jan 13, 2024): China says nations outside region shouldn't 'interfere' in sea dispute (By CNN Philippines Staff)

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 13) — China on Saturday said countries outside the region have no right to "interfere" in its dispute with the Philippines regarding contested waters in the South China Sea. This was after Germany's foreign minister expressed concern over China's "risky" behavior toward Philippine vessels in the area.

"No non-regional country has the right to interfere in the maritime disputes between China and the Philippines," the Chinese embassy said when sought for comment on German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock's statements in support of Manila.

During her visit to the country on Thursday, Baerbock said European countries are concerned about tensions in the disputed South China Sea as Beijing's actions in the resource-rich waterway "violate the rights and opportunities for the economic development" of the Philippines and other nations.

She noted the Chinese ships' use of military-grade laser and water cannons against Philippine vessels. The use of laser temporarily blinded Filipino crew members, while the blasts from the water cannons resulted in damage to much smaller Philippine ships.

Germany also reiterated its support for the 2016 arbitral award that recognized the Philippines' sovereign rights in areas within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

To this, the Chinese embassy said it strongly opposes "relevant disinformation, misrepresentation and distortion of truth."

"Disregarding basic facts, the German side made unwarranted accusation about China's South China Sea policy and legitimate and lawful actions," it said.

Beijing insisted that the landmark award invalidating its sweeping claims in the area is "illegal, null, and void," and that its rights and interests in the South China Sea "are consistent with international law."

"At the same time, we are committed to properly handling disputes with the Philippines through dialogue and consultation with the aim of jointly maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea," the embassy said.

The Philippines has repeatedly demanded that China immediately leave its waters and stop any acts that violate its rights within its EEZ.

https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2024/1/13/china-germany-interference-south-china-sea-dispute.html