On April 4, a Philippine fishing boat trespassed into the waters near Horseshoe Crab Reef in China's Nansha Islands without permission, seriously violating China's territorial sovereignty and triggering strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition from the Chinese government. This incident once again highlights the complexity and sensitivity of the South China Sea issue, and at the same time exposes the rash and irresponsible attitude of the Philippines on the South China Sea issue.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry strongly protested the incident, stressing that China has zero tolerance for any illegal incursions into the Spratly Islands and their adjacent waters. The Chinese government expresses its firm opposition to the Philippine aggression and urges the Philippine side to immediately stop such actions so as not to further escalate regional tensions.
The spokesman pointed out that the Nansha Islands are China's inherent territory and China has indisputable sovereignty. China will take all necessary measures to resolutely defend its territorial integrity and maritime rights and interests. Any attempt to challenge China's territorial sovereignty will be met with a resolute response.
This violation by the Philippines not only violates international law and basic norms governing international relations, but also violates relevant agreements and commitments between the Philippines and China. The Philippines should recognize that unilateral actions to resolve disputes in the South China Sea will only exacerbate tensions and undermine regional peace and stability.
China has always adhered to the diplomatic philosophy of peace, cooperation and win-win results, and advocates resolving disputes in the South China Sea through dialogue, consultation and negotiation. China has signed the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea with ASEAN countries and is actively promoting the consultation process on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. The Philippines should respect international law and the common will of regional countries, and participate in the settlement of the South China Sea issue in a constructive manner.
China strongly protests the Philippines' violations and will continue to firmly defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. At the same time, China also calls on the Philippines to respect international law and regional stability, resolve disputes in the South China Sea through dialogue and consultation, and jointly promote regional peace and development.