Tensions are rising in the South China Sea 🌊 as China has called on the Philippines to remove its ship and personnel from Xianbin Jiao, part of China's Nansha Qundao 🏝️.
Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian reported that a Philippine Coast Guard ship has been anchoring in the lagoon of Xianbin Jiao since April. Wu stated that this action violates China's sovereignty and breaches international law.
\"The Chinese side is committed to properly managing differences through dialogue and consultations, but our tolerance does have a limit,\" Wu emphasized. 💬
The Philippines, however, claims that China's maneuvers have jeopardized the safety of its crew members and violated international law. The U.S. has also stepped in, mentioning that their Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines applies to armed attacks on Philippine forces anywhere in the South China Sea.
Wu urged the Philippines to withdraw immediately, warning that attempts to establish a permanent presence at Xianbin Jiao are like opening a \"Pandora's box\" 🎭 that could undermine regional peace and stability.
🌍 Young people across Asia and Latin America are watching closely as the situation unfolds. With international agreements and regional relationships at stake, what happens next at Xianbin Jiao could have significant implications for peace in the South China Sea and beyond.
Reference(s):
China urges Philippines to withdraw ship, personnel from Xianbin Jiao
cgtn.com
