Philippines Accused of Ramming Chinese Coast Guard Vessel in South China Sea
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Chinese Coast Guard has accused a Philippine vesselof deliberately ramming one of its ships in the disputed South China Sea, escalating tensions between the two countries.
The incident occurred on August 25th near the vicinity of Second Thomas Shoal, known as Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines, a strategically important area claimed by both countries.
According to a statement released by the Chinese Coast Guard spokesperson, Gan Yu, the Philippine vessel, identified as BRP 3002, entered the waters near the shoal without permission from the Chinese government. The Chinese Coast Guard,in response, deployed vessels to take control measures against the Philippine ship.
The statement further alleged that at 2:12 PM local time, the BRP 3002, despite repeated warnings from the Chineseside, intentionally rammed the Chinese Coast Guard vessel 21551, causing a collision. The Chinese Coast Guard attributed full responsibility for the incident to the Philippines, accusing them of acting in an unprofessional and dangerous manner.
We urge the Philippines to immediately stop its infringement and provocation,the statement concluded. Otherwise, it will bear all the consequences of any resulting situation.
The Philippine government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. However, Philippine officials have previously expressed their intention to continue their presence in the disputed waters, citing their right to access the area under the United Nations Convention onthe Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The incident comes amidst heightened tensions between China and the Philippines over the South China Sea. China claims sovereignty over almost the entire sea, a claim disputed by several other countries including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
The South China Sea is avital waterway for international trade and contains rich fishing grounds and potential oil and gas reserves. The ongoing territorial disputes have raised concerns about the potential for conflict in the region.
Background:
- Second Thomas Shoal (Ayungin Shoal): This shoal is a submerged reef located within the Philippines’exclusive economic zone (EEZ). However, China claims sovereignty over the area. The Philippines has maintained a military presence on the shoal since 1999, with a grounded warship, BRP Sierra Madre, serving as a military outpost.
- UNCLOS: The United Nations Convention on the Law ofthe Sea (UNCLOS) is an international treaty that defines the rights and responsibilities of states in maritime areas. The Philippines argues that its presence on Second Thomas Shoal is justified under UNCLOS, while China maintains that the shoal is part of its territorial waters.
- US Involvement: The United States hasexpressed concerns over China’s actions in the South China Sea and has conducted freedom of navigation operations in the area. The US has also pledged to support its allies in the region, including the Philippines, in defending their territorial integrity.
Analysis:
The latest incident highlights the ongoing tensions between China and the Philippines overthe South China Sea. The Chinese Coast Guard’s accusation of deliberate ramming by the Philippine vessel is a serious allegation that could further escalate the situation.
The incident also raises concerns about the potential for escalation of conflict in the region. Both countries have been increasing their military presence in the disputed waters, raising fearsof a potential clash.
The international community is watching the situation closely. The US, a key ally of the Philippines, has already expressed its concerns over China’s actions. It remains to be seen how the incident will impact the broader regional security landscape.
Outlook:
The incident is likely to furtherstrain relations between China and the Philippines. It is crucial for both sides to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully. The international community also has a role to play in encouraging both countries to adhere to international law and maintain peace and stability in the region.
【来源】http://www.chinanews.com/gn/2024/08-25/10274439.shtml
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