On Tuesday, China reiterated its three-point principled position on the situation at Ren'ai Reef and urged the Philippines to immediately cease provocations at sea.
The statement came after Philippine personnel aboard a vessel illegally grounded near Ren'ai Reef aggressively harassed a Chinese Coast Guard patrol boat, according to the Chinese side. China considers the reef part of its territory.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, at a regular press conference, stated that China's position on the temporary arrangement reached with the Philippines in July 2024 regarding the delivery of humanitarian supplies to the Philippine vessel illegally grounded near Ren'ai Reef remains unchanged.
Lin reiterated that China strongly urges the Philippines to remove the vessel. Its continued presence there, he said, constitutes a violation of Chinese sovereignty and is inconsistent with the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.
Until the vessel is removed, China is willing, for humanitarian reasons, to allow the Philippines to transport daily necessities for the personnel stationed onboard. The condition is that Manila must inform Beijing in advance, and the cargo will be inspected on site, Lin said. China will monitor the entire supply process.
The spokesperson also stated that China will never accept any attempt by the Philippines to build permanent facilities near Ren'ai Reef or establish a permanent base there. Such actions will be met with lawful measures.
In connection with recent developments, Lin accused the Philippines of deliberately creating incidents near Ren'ai Reef and of violent attacks on Chinese law enforcement personnel. The Philippine side subsequently distorted the facts and shifted the blame to China.
"China expresses strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to these actions," Lin said. He called on the Philippines to fulfill its commitments, immediately cease naval provocations, and stop spreading false claims.
The spokesperson also pointed out a recurring pattern in maritime disputes. "Every time China and the Philippines were about to start communication, and every time a significant diplomatic event was approaching in the region, some forces used maritime issues for provocation and creating problems," he said.
"It is clear who is behind these actions and who bears responsibility," Lin added, noting that China's policy towards neighboring countries remains consistent and unchanged.
gnews.cz/CMG