Tensions Rise in South China Sea Amid Maritime Spat
China has dismissed recent accusations by the Philippines about constructing an artificial island near Xianbin Jiao (Escoda Reef) as \"groundless rumors,\" escalating a war of words in the disputed South China Sea. 🌏
Philippine officials claimed Chinese activities in the area, part of what Manila calls the West Philippine Sea, involved damaging coral reefs to build infrastructure. But Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin fired back: \"These accusations are baseless and deliberately muddy the waters.\"
\"We urge the Philippines to stop making irresponsible remarks,\" Wang added during a Monday press briefing, emphasizing China's preference for resolving disputes through dialogue. The reef sits within China's historically claimed nine-dash line near Nansha Qundao (Spratly Islands).
This latest clash comes as China Coast Guard vessels reportedly used water cannons during March maritime operations – though Beijing maintains its actions are lawful. Analysts suggest the dispute reflects broader struggles over resource-rich waters crucial to $3 trillion in annual global shipping. 🚢💼
