BEIJING (Reuters) – China has indeniable sovereignty over the Scarborough Shoal and its adjoining waters, and has at all times resolutely countered infringements by the Philippines, a spokesperson for China Coast Guard stated in an announcement launched late Tuesday.
The spokesperson stated 4 Philippine personnel illegally intruded in sure areas on Jan. 28, and the Coast Guard warned them to depart in accordance with the legislation. The interplay was “skilled and standardised”, in line with the assertion.
Accusations and runs-in have occurred incessantly between the 2 international locations over the previous yr over disputed territorial areas of the South China Sea.
China claims sovereignty over virtually the complete South China Sea, which has angered neighbouring international locations that dispute some boundaries they are saying minimize into their unique financial zones.
“China’s Coast Guard will, as at all times, defend and implement” the legislation in waters below the nation’s jurisdiction, the assertion stated, citing the spokesperson.
China routinely conducts patrols of the South China Sea at the same time as tensions simmer between it and the Philippines, which not too long ago had its personal joint army patrol within the area with its ally – the US – drawing the ire of China.
The spokesperson stated the Coast Guard will firmly safeguard nationwide sovereignty and maritime rights and pursuits.
(Reporting by Bernard Orr; Enhancing by Tom Hogue and Lincoln Feast)
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