China has strongly condemned the United States for playing an “extremely dishonorable role” in supporting and cooperating with the Philippines in the South China Sea dispute. The Chinese foreign ministry made this statement on Monday in response to recent remarks by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
China Accuses Philippines of Serving US Interests
Kabul 24: China’s foreign ministry emphasized that it is clear to anyone who is paying attention that the Philippines is serving US interests in its foreign policy and maritime operations. This accusation comes after President Marcos Jr. denounced illegal, coercive, and aggressive actions in disputed waters of the South China Sea.
China Offers Cooperation with ASEAN Countries
Despite the tensions, China expressed its willingness to continue working with ASEAN countries, including the Philippines, to manage differences at sea and deepen sea-related cooperation. This offer is seen as an attempt to maintain a positive relationship with the region and to avoid further escalation of the dispute.
Philippines Denounces Illegal Actions in South China Sea
President Marcos Jr. had previously denounced illegal, coercive, and aggressive actions in disputed waters of the South China Sea. His remarks were seen as a response to China’s increasing assertiveness in the region, which has led to concerns about the stability of the South China Sea.
US Support for Philippines Raises Tensions
The US has been providing military support to the Philippines, which has led to increased tensions with China. The US has been critical of China’s actions in the South China Sea, accusing it of violating international law and threatening regional stability. China, on the other hand, has accused the US of meddling in regional affairs and supporting the Philippines in its disputes with China.
Regional Stability at Risk
The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea have raised concerns about regional stability. The dispute has the potential to escalate into a larger conflict, which could have significant implications for global trade and security. The US and China have been engaged in a trade war and a technology war, and the South China Sea dispute is another area of contention between the two nations.
ASEAN Countries Seek to Manage Tensions
ASEAN countries, including the Philippines, are seeking to manage the tensions in the South China Sea through diplomacy and cooperation. The region has been working to establish a code of conduct to prevent conflicts and to promote peaceful resolution of disputes. However, the US and China have been at odds over the issue, making it challenging to achieve a consensus.
China-US Relations Under Strain
The South China Sea dispute is just one of several areas of contention between the US and China. The two nations have been engaged in a trade war, a technology war, and a diplomatic war, which has put significant strain on their relations. The US has been critical of China’s human rights record, its actions in the South China Sea, and its economic policies, while China has accused the US of meddling in regional affairs and supporting the Philippines in its disputes with China.
Regional Cooperation Key to Stability
Regional cooperation is seen as key to managing the tensions in the South China Sea and promoting stability in the region. ASEAN countries are working together to establish a code of conduct and to promote peaceful resolution of disputes. The US and China must also work together to find a solution that respects the rights and interests of all parties involved.
