China urges Philippines to cease provocations and adhere to treaties on South China Sea dispute

China called on the Philippines to stop infringing on its maritime rights and to respect historical treaties, urging compliance with international law and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

China has issued a strong call for the Philippines to cease its provocations and alleged infringements on China’s rights in the South China Sea, emphasizing the need for adherence to historical treaties and international law. This statement was made by Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, during a press briefing on Monday. The appeal comes amidst ongoing tensions over territorial claims and maritime boundaries in the disputed region.

Mao Ning stressed that the Philippines should stop what China views as provocative actions and desist from misleading the international community regarding maritime disputes. The spokesperson specifically highlighted the importance of respecting historical agreements, notably the 1898 Treaty of Peace between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Spain, which, according to China, outlines the territorial definitions pertinent to the Philippines.

“The Philippines, if it would truly act in accordance with international law, should first and foremost observe the treaties that define its territory, including the 1898 Treaty of Peace between the United States of America and the Kingdom of Spain, and abide by the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea,” Mao Ning stated.

China’s call for adherence to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, which was signed in 2002 by China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), underscores the need for a peaceful and cooperative approach to resolving disputes. The declaration emphasizes the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation, resolving disputes through dialogue, and avoiding activities that would escalate tensions.

The South China Sea is a highly contested region with multiple overlapping claims from countries including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei. China’s claims, represented by the “nine-dash line,” encompass most of the sea and have been a point of contention, particularly with the Philippines, which has pursued its territorial rights based on international rulings and maritime laws.

Mao Ning’s remarks highlight China’s firm stance on the issue, emphasizing that the Philippines should adhere to historical treaties and international agreements rather than pursuing actions that China perceives as provocative. This call for compliance aims to reinforce China’s position and underline the importance of legal and diplomatic channels in resolving maritime disputes.

As tensions continue, the emphasis on observing historical treaties and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties signals China’s intention to frame the dispute within a legal and diplomatic context, urging the Philippines and other claimants to act accordingly. This approach aims to foster stability and cooperation in the region while asserting China’s claims and rights under the framework of international law.