Beijing Pushes Back On South China Sea 'Barrier' Claims

(MNI) London - The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has defended its actions in the South China Sea, after the Philippines issued condemnation of the placement of a 'floating barrier' in part of the Scarborough Shoal that Manila says could affect its maritime rights. Chinese MoFA spoz Wang Wenbin stated that the "Coast guard took necessary measures in accordance with law to bloc and drive away vessels", and that "China has sovereign rights and jurisdiction over Huangyan island."

• On 24 Sep, Philippines Coastguard spox Jay Tarriela statedthat "The (Philippine Coast Guard) will continue to work closely with all concerned government agencies to address these challenges, uphold our maritime rights and protect our maritime domains,"
• Maritime disputes between the Philippines and China are not uncommon, but a deterioration in bilateral relations under President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. could increase the frequency of such flare-ups in a geopolitically tense region.