The Philippines and China had just agreed to defuse their conflict in the South China Sea. But now there is another clash.
In the dispute between China and the Philippines over territorial claims in the South China Sea, another incident has occurred on the high seas. Both sides announced that ships had collided and blamed each other. A government task force in Manila, which deals with issues relating to western Philippine sea areas, accused China of “illegal and aggressive maneuvers” in a statement. According to the statement, two supply ships of the Philippine coast guard collided with two Chinese ships in quick succession early Monday morning.
In the first case, a hole about five inches (about 13 centimeters) was torn in one of the Philippine vessels. Shortly afterwards, a Chinese coast guard vessel rammed a second Philippine vessel, also causing minor damage. Both incidents occurred southeast of Sabina Shoal, a shoal that is part of the Spratly Islands claimed by both China and the Philippines.
China blames the Philippines
According to the Chinese coast guard, a Philippine coast guard ship caused a collision with a Chinese ship. Despite repeated warnings, the Philippine ship approached the Chinese ship “dangerously”. There was no mention of another collision.
In the dispute over the region, the Philippines and China reached an agreement just a few weeks ago to avoid further confrontations. The agreement concerned the tense situation around the Second Thomas Shoal, where Philippine troops have been stationed on a stranded ship called the “BRP Sierra Madre” since 1999. Supply missions for the ship have repeatedly led to confrontations in recent months.
China’s claims
China claims practically the entire South China Sea for itself. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also claim territory there. The resource-rich region is also considered an important global trade route. The USA and China’s neighbours accuse Beijing of increasing militarisation of the region.
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
