China filed a diplomatic protest against the Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines, criticizing his statement of support for the Philippines in the West Philippines Sea as “irresponsible” that allegedly ignored facts driven by “political correctness.”
The Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines confirmed the diplomatic protest, questioning Japan’s adherence to international rules and challenging its claim of jurisdiction over 700,000 square kilometers based on the less-than-10-square-meter Okinotori reef.
The Spokesperson also raised concerns about Japan’s alleged “double standards,” particularly referencing its historical actions during World War II against countries in the region.
“The peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region are hard-earned and need to be cherished and protected by regional countries. China firmly safeguards its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and remains committed to properly handling maritime disputes with the Philippines through dialogue and consultation,” the Spokesperson stated.
“We urge Japan to deeply reflect on history, reflect on its words and actions, and contribute more to regional peace and stability, and try establishing itself as a truly independent and trustworthy country in the eyes of its Asian neighbors and the international community,” it concluded.
On August 27, Japan released a statement condemning China’s repeated “obstruction” in the South China Sea, including ramming boats and using water cannons against vessels, directly threatening freedom of navigation and overflight, and undermining regional peace and stability.
In a statement from its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan condemned “any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force as well as any actions that increase tensions in the South China Sea” and opposed China’s “dangerous and coercive use vessels of Coast Guard and maritime militia as well as aircrafts.”
Consistently, Japan reaffirmed its commitment to enforce the ‘legally binding’ arbitral award governing disputes in the South China Sea, in accordance with the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“Japan highly appreciates the Government of the Philippines for having consistently complied with the Arbitral Tribunal’s award as to the disputes between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China regarding the South China Sea and shown its commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea,” Japan said.
