Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 24)— The recent presence of Chinese vessels in parts of the West Philippine Sea “endangers peace and stability” in the region, the European Union said Saturday, as it urged concerned parties to settle disputes peacefully.
In a statement, the EU — through its foreign and security policy service European External Action Service (EEAS) — expressed concern over the tensions in the disputed waters, particularly the lingering presence of Beijing’s ships at Julian Felipe Reef or Whitsun Reef.
It reiterated its strong opposition to any action that could potentially undermine the “international rules-based order.”
“We urge all parties to resolve disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, in particular UNCLOS, including its dispute settlement mechanisms,” the EU said, further citing the 2016 arbitral ruling that recognized Manila’s sovereign rights in areas of its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone.
The EU also urged all parties to work on finalizing the Code of Conduct for the South China Sea.
The Philippines on Friday lodged two more diplomatic protests against the East Asian giant after local authorities reported that some 160 Chinese vessels remain in the country’s EEZ.
The national government has repeatedly demanded that the ships — which the Chinese embassy earlier claimed were merely fishing vessels — leave the contested waters.
South China Sea: tensions, including recent presence of large 🇨🇳 vessels at #WhitsunReef, endanger peace & stability. 🇪🇺 advocates secure, free & open maritime supply routes in full compliance with international law & strongly opposes unilateral actions https://t.co/vjAfkrjomk
— Peter Stano (@ExtSpoxEU) April 24, 2021
