Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, answers media queries at a press briefing in Beijing, China, July 12, 2024. /Chinese Ministry of National Defense
The Chinese Ministry of National Defense on Friday urged the Philippines to immediately withdraw its personnel and ships illegally stationed at Xianbin Jiao of China's Nansha Qundao in the South China Sea.
The Philippines' actions have created new tensions in the South China Sea and further undermined regional peace and stability, Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for the ministry, said at a regular press briefing.
Zhang made the comments in response to queries that China Coast Guard vessels recently carried out tracking, monitoring and control measures against actions by the Philippines to transfer personnel and supplies to its Coast Guard ships illegally stationed at Xianbin Jiao.
Relevant actions of the Philippine side seriously violate China's sovereignty and the Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), particularly Article 5, said Zhang.
According to Article 5 of the DOC, all parties should refrain from inhabiting the presently uninhabited islands and reefs in the South China Sea.
Zhang on Friday stressed that China has indisputable sovereignty over Nansha Qundao, including Xianbin Jiao, and the law enforcement operations of the Chinese side are legitimate and justified.
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