China willing to work with ASEAN countries to guarantee peace in SCS —embassy

Flag of China screenshot from CCTV video via Reuters

China is willing to work with ASEAN countries to enforce the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea as well as to guarantee peace and stability in the region.

This was according to the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy when asked for comment on the call made by United States Ambassador MaryKay Carlson for China to halt its harassment of Philippine vessels in Manila's exclusive economic zone.

The Chinese Embassy maintained that China’s position over territorial issues in the region has been consistent and clear, noting that it is in line with international law, including the UNCLOS.

''We firmly safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea,'' the embassy said.

''Meanwhile, we stay committed to properly managing differences through dialogue and consultation with countries concerned, and would like to work with ASEAN countries to fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, advance the consultation on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the region,'' the embassy added.

Recently, a Philippine Navy sailor lost a thumb after China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels repeatedly rammed Philippine Navy rubber boats to stop them from delivering food supplies and other necessities to BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal.

The CCG personnel were also seen brandishing knives, an axe, and pointed sticks.

Based on videos and photos released by the Philippine military, the hulls of the PN boats were slashed and the navigational equipment were damaged by the Chinese.

The Philippine government already sent a note verbale following the incident, however, President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. said the country should do more than just filing protests.

US stirring up tension

Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy further claimed that the US has played a dishonorable part ''by stirring up confrontation and hyping up tension for its own geopolitical interest.''

''When diplomatic efforts are being made by China and the Philippines to manage differences, the United States stokes the situation instead of promoting peace and facilitating talks. History and facts show that the United States has never been a solution to but rather the problem itself,'' the embassy said.

It added that Washington's application of international law and international order has been selective.

''It sends aircraft and warships to the South China Sea to flex muscles under the pretext of exercising freedom of navigation. Its true intention is not promoting regional peace and stability, but ensuring 'freedom of rampage' of its own aircraft and warships,'' the embassy said. —KBK, GMA Integrated News

This article China willing to work with ASEAN countries to guarantee peace in SCS —embassy was originally published in GMA News Online.