The chief of the US Indo-Pacific Command, Adm. Samuel Paparo, has warned the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) against taking dangerous or escalatory actions in the South China Sea, amid a growing presence of Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea.
During a video conference with Gen. Wu Yanan of the PLA’s Southern Theater Command, Paparo emphasized the need for open communication to prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations.
The US Indo-Pacific Command urged the PLA to reconsider its tactics in the South China Sea, as Beijing’s embassy in Manila criticized attempts to link the Taiwan issue with maritime disputes.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy reported an increase in Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea, with 207 now present, including coast guard ships, navy vessels, and maritime militia boats.
This vessel rise follows Tropical Storm Enteng and is concentrated around Rozul Reef, with the Philippine Navy still assessing the reasons behind this increase.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 11, 2024
