China opposed Manila’s plan to construct a civilian facility at Ayungin Shoal, which is part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said such a “major move” would “severely infringe” on China’s sovereignty and would prompt “resolute” countermeasures.
Mao’s warning came on the heels of the directive of Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday to his ambassadors to forge a “diplomatic iron army”
“Ren’ai Jiao is an uninhabited shoal. According to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea signed by China and ASEAN countries, parties should keep Ren’ai Jiao uninhabited and facility-free,” Mao said, referring to the name China uses for Ayungin.
“China will take resolute measures against any violation of our sovereignty and provocation, and firmly safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” Mao added.
In his meeting with Chinese ambassadors during a gathering in Beijing earlier this week, Xi exhorted them to “dare to be good at struggle and to become defenders of the national interest.”
“It is necessary to resolutely safeguard the interests of national sovereignty, security and development with a posture of readiness and a firm will to defy strong powers,” Xi said, as reported by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.
Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said the Philippines is considering building a shelter for fisherfolk in Ayungin.
Aguilar also mentioned a civilian structure like a lighthouse or a marine scientific research center.