October 15, 2024 09:07 GMT
PHILIPPINES: Manila Trades Accusations w/Beijing After Another Maritime Clash
PHILIPPINES
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(MNI) London - Tensions in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China remain heightened after accusations and counter-accusations regarding maritime security and the actions of respective coastguard and fisheries vessels. Earlier the Philippines' Bureau of Fisheries claimed that on 11 Oct a "Chinese maritime militia" ship had “deliberately sideswiped” two of its vessels near the Philippine-occupied Thitu Island in the contested Spratly Islands. The Chinese Foreign Ministry in turn claims that the Philippines "seriously threatened" the safety of Chinese fishing boats and personnel. It went on to urge the Philippines to "respect Chinese sovereignty in the South China Sea and stop any moves that may complicate the situation."
- The Sino-Philippine clash comes as naval drills by China and joint US-Philippine exercises have limited the prospect of a cooling in tensions any time soon. Even the prospect of the agreement of a regional code of conduct is unlikely to improve ties, with Philippine Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro saying on 14 Oct, when asked by reporters about Beijing's sincerity in negotiations "Right now, honestly speaking, I do not see that,"
- The Philippines' elevation of defence ties with South Korea to a 'strategic partnership' could also spark some response reports SCMP. SCMP: "The Philippines can expect some kind of hybrid response from China as Manila works with other US allies to challenge Beijing’s dominance in the South China Sea, an observer said after Manila elevated defence ties with Seoul last week."
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