Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 12) — The United Kingdom (UK) joined other countries in condemning China following its “escalatory tactics” against the Philippines last weekend.
In a statement, the UK criticized Chinese vessels’ actions as “unsafe,” as local authorities reported that the latter’s water cannon attacks damaged a Philippine ship in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).The UK opposes any action which raises tensions, including harassment, unsafe conduct and intimidation tactics which increase the risk of miscalculation and threaten regional peace and stability,” it said.
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The United States has reiterated that any armed attack against Filipino troops, including the country’s land and air assets, would trigger their defense pact.Amid China’s aggressive tactics in the WPS, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said Beijing has no peaceful agenda in Philippine territory.Teodoro also said the Philippines will “not yield,” as all their actions are based on the law.
