Question: Not long ago, a friction happened between the vessels of China and the Philippines in waters near Ren'ai Jiao. The Philippines' Defense Secretary said that "Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels" were "in blatant violation of international law." The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed that "supplies to troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre on" Ren'ai Jiao "would continue to be transported by boat" despite being repeatedly expelled by China. The US National Security Advisor reiterated US support for the Philippines, and emphasized that the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty also applied to the Philippine Coast Guard. What's your take on that?
Wu Qian: The CCG and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have released multiple statements concerning what really happened and published videos as evidence. The cause and facts of the incident are clear and the evidence is irrefutable.
China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Qundao, including Ren'ai Jiao, and its adjacent waters. China's sovereignty is shaped and confirmed through a historical process, and complies with international laws including the UN Charter. On the specific case, Philippine ships ignored repeated dissuasion and warnings of the Chinese side, and intentionally violated China's sovereignty and made provocations by crossing the bow of a CCG ship in a dangerous manner. A Philippine coast guard vessel then deliberately reversed and bumped into a parked Chinese fishing boat, endangering the personnel of both sides. The responsibility lies fully with the Philippine side. In response to the Philippines' provocations, the CCG responded in accordance with laws to safeguard China's territorial sovereignty. The CCG's operations are reasonable, legitimate, and professional. Unfortunately, some outside power ignored the facts and stirred up discords by misleading international public opinions. The Chinese side is firmly opposed to that.
We ask the Philippine side to stop violating China's sovereignty and stop any deliberate and provocative actions to prevent further escalation of the situation. We urge the US to stop interfering in the South China Sea issue, stop fanning the flame and stirring up troubles to undermine regional peace and stability. The Chinese military will firmly safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and continue to operate in waters under China's jurisdiction.