The Philippines accuses the Chinese coast guard of firing water cannons at its ships in the disputed South China Sea.
The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, August 5, when the Philippine Coast Guard escorted ships carrying supplies to Spratly Islands, where the Philippine military is stationed.
“The Philippine Coast Guard strongly condemns the Chinese Coast Guard’s dangerous maneuvers and illegal use of water cannons,” The Philippines said in a statement. But according to China, the country has only been taken “necessary measures”.
Gan Yu, a spokesperson for China’s coast guard stated, that the measures were carried out in accordance with the law. The action was according to Gan Yu deemed necessary, to stop Philippine vessels transporting illegal construction materials.
“Two repair ships and two coast guard ships from the Philippines illegally entered the water,” Gan Yu said.
The Royal Danish Embassy in Manila has expressed concerns over the recent act. The embassy has deemed, the actions of the Chinese Coast Guard’s for unsafe. The statement says, that the use of a water cannon to obstruct a Philippine supply boat, possess the potential to escalate tensions. It also accuses the action for undermining the foundation of international law and maritime security.
“All actions that contribute to militarization and disputes represent a threat to regional peace and security. Denmark firmly reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes and the upholding of international law. This includes the 2016 arbitral decision on the South China Sea. This decision, under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), must be respected,” The embassy says.
China claims almost all of the sea, but Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also claim parts of the waters.
Source: aftonbladet.se
