China's National People's Congress (NPC) has issued a sharp rebuke of the Philippines' newly enacted Maritime Zones Act, calling it a 'serious infringement' on Chinese sovereignty in the South China Sea. 🌏
The NPC, China's top legislative body, accused Manila of attempting to legitimize a 2016 international arbitration ruling—a decision Beijing has long rejected—by embedding it into Philippine law. The law reportedly claims Huangyan Dao (Scarborough Shoal) and parts of the Nansha Qundao (Spratly Islands) as part of Philippine waters. 🗺️
⚖️ 'This legislation violates international law and our core interests,' stated the NPC Foreign Affairs Committee. 'China will never accept any claims based on illegal rulings.' The committee urged Manila to 'immediately cease unilateral actions' complicating regional stability.
🧭 The statement reiterated China's historical claims to disputed islands and waters while emphasizing Beijing's preference for 'dialogue over confrontation.' Analysts suggest rising tensions could impact trade routes vital to global shipping.
This clash comes as young professionals and travelers increasingly eye Southeast Asia for business and adventure. With stakes high for both economies, all eyes are on how this geopolitical drama unfolds. 💼✈️
