In a recent development 🌊, China has firmly rejected claims made by the Philippines about constructing an \"artificial island\" near Xianbin Jiao, also known as Xianbin Reef. A Chinese official on Monday described these accusations as \"groundless\" and pure rumors.
Manila had alleged that Beijing was building an island in the waters adjacent to Escoda (the name used by the Philippines for Xianbin Jiao) in the area they refer to as the West Philippine Sea, asserting that coral reefs were being destroyed in the process 🐠🌴.
Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry, addressed the issue during a regular press conference. \"Such accusations against China are baseless and pure rumors,\" Wang stated. He emphasized that the Philippines has been spreading rumors on many occasions, deliberately smearing China and misleading the international community.
\"We urge the Philippines to stop making irresponsible remarks, face the facts, and return to the right track of properly handling maritime-related differences through negotiation and consultation as soon as possible,\" Wang added.
Xianbin Jiao is located within the nine-dash line of China's Nansha Qundao (known internationally as the Spratly Islands), which China asserts as part of its territory 🇨🇳. The area has been a point of contention between the two countries, adding tension to their maritime relations.
This latest exchange highlights the ongoing challenges in the region, where multiple countries have overlapping claims. The call for dialogue and negotiation aims to promote peace and stability in the area 🌏✌️.
As the story unfolds, all eyes will be on how both nations navigate these troubled waters. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing situation 👀.
Reference(s):
China slams claims about building artificial island near Xianbin Jiao
cgtn.com
