China’s Coast Guard announced that it has permitted the Philippines to deliver supplies to troops stationed at Ayungin Shoal, a contested reef in the South China Sea.
This decision marks a departure from China’s previous efforts to impede Philippine missions to resupply troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre, a World War II-era vessel grounded at the shoal, located 190 km off Palawan.
The Chinese Coast Guard attributed this allowance to “temporary special arrangements” while emphasizing its unwavering commitment to safeguarding China’s sovereignty and maritime rights in the region. Despite permitting the supply deliveries, China reiterated its staunch defense of its territorial claims in the South China Sea.
China’s claim over nearly the entirety of the South China Sea has been a point of contention with neighboring countries, including Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. The disputed territories intersect with the exclusive economic zones of these nations, leading to persistent tensions in the region.
The statement on China’s official WeChat account criticized what it deemed as deliberate misinformation from “relevant parties” in the Philippines, accusing them of disregarding facts and exacerbating tensions. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr, however, has refuted claims that Manila made a promise to tow away the BRP Sierra Madre as demanded by China.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 29, 2024
