The governments of Japan and Canada both rejected China’s establishment of a so-called “nature reserve” in Scarborough Shoal, also called Bajo de Masinloc, which falls within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Japan’s ambassador to the Philippines, Endo Kazuya, echoed Manila’s call for China to respect the Philippines’ sovereignty and jurisdiction in its internationally recognized territorial waters.
In an X post, Endo expressed concern over China’s recent move to establish a “nature reserve” outside its territory.
“Seriously concerned over China’s recent announcement that could undermine regional stability in the South China Sea. Reiterate 2016 Arbitral award is final and legally binding, and the parties are required to comply with it,” Japan’s envoy wrote.
Likewise, the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines also opposed China’s move, citing “attempts to use environmental protection as a way to take control over the disputed Scarborough Shoal”.
“Canada recognizes the rights of states in the region, including the Philippines, to exercise sovereign rights and jurisdiction within their exclusive economic zones in accordance with international law,” its statement said.
The European Union and the United States earlier expressed similar sentiments.
Last week, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced that it would file a formal diplomatic protest against China.
