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| Image Credit: Al-Jazeera |
News Desk
The Philippines
has accused China of harassment and dangerous manoeuvres after a Chinese water
cannon incident in the disputed South China Sea. The incident left two
Philippine vessels damaged.
In response to the incident, Philippines summoned a Chinese diplomat while accusing Beijing about the harassing move.
The Ministry of
Foreign Affairs called in China’s deputy chief of mission Zhou Zhiyong on
Thursday, two days after the incident at a disputed shoal that left a
Philippine coastguard vessel and another government boat damaged.
This is the
20th protest by the Philippines against China's coastguard and fishing vessels
this year, highlighting rising tensions in the region.
What Happened?
- A Chinese water cannon was used against two Philippine vessels during a patrol in the South China Sea.
- The water pressure was strong enough to damage metal sections and equipment on the Philippine vessels.
- The Philippines claims the incident is part of a larger pattern of harassment, ramming, swarming, shadowing, and blocking by China.
Why is this Important?
- The Scarborough Shoal is a prime fishing ground claimed by both China and the Philippines.
- The incident comes amid rising tensions between the Philippines and China over the South China Sea.
- The Philippines is strengthening alliances with the United States and Japan in response to China's assertiveness.
What is the Background?
- China claims almost the entire South China Sea, despite an international ruling that its claims have no legal basis.
- The Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, and Vietnam all have rival claims to parts of the South China Sea.
- China blockaded and seized the Scarborough Shoal from the Philippines in 2012.
The Takeaway
- The water cannon incident in the South China Sea is the latest sign of rising tensions between China and the Philippines.
- The Philippines is calling for China to cease its aggressive actions and respect international law.
(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)
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