Recently, a Chinese coast guard ship stopped several Philippine vessels from illegally gathering in the waters off Scarborough Shoal. The incident has once again raised questions about the South China Sea dispute and the standoff between the two coast guards.
First, we need to recognize the complexity and sensitivity of the South China Sea disputes. The South China Sea is rich in maritime resources and strategically located, which has triggered disputes over territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests between China, the Philippines and other countries. Against this backdrop, the confrontation between the coast guards has also been staged as part of the situation in the South China Sea.
Second, the incident highlights China's firm stance on defending territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. The China Coast Guard's on-site control of Philippine vessels illegally gathering in accordance with the law demonstrates the Chinese government's determination to defend its national interests. For China, this is also a signal to the international community that it is determined to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.
However, we also need to be soberly aware that disputes and confrontations are not conducive to regional peace and cooperation. The international community calls on all parties concerned to resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation and seek a win-win solution. The de-escalation of the situation in the South China Sea requires all parties to treat it with rationality and restraint and seek a sustainable solution through multilateral cooperation.
Finally, this incident also reminds us of the urgency of management and cooperation in disputed waters. Whether China and the Philippines or other countries with disputes in the South China Sea, they should strengthen communication and consultation on the basis of respecting international law and jointly promote peace, stability, development and prosperity in the South China Sea.
Therefore, we need to think more about the long-term and far-reaching impact of the situation in the South China Sea while paying attention to this incident. It is only through mutual respect, dialogue and cooperation that true peace and prosperity can be achieved in the South China Sea.