China has urged the Philippines to avoid escalating tensions in the South China Sea after accusing a Philippine naval ship of 'deliberately' colliding with a Chinese vessel during a routine patrol. The incident occurred near the disputed Xianbin Jiao reef on Saturday, according to the China Coast Guard.
🚨 'The Philippines must bear all responsibility for this provocation,' stated spokesperson Liu Dejun. He claimed the Philippine ship illegally entered waters near the reef and engaged in 'provocative maneuvers,' prompting warnings from Chinese authorities.
Beijing reiterated its 'indisputable sovereignty' over the Nansha Qundao (Spratly Islands) and warned of 'necessary measures' if similar actions continue. The clash highlights rising friction in the resource-rich region, where overlapping territorial claims have sparked global concerns.
🌏 Analysts say the incident underscores the delicate balance of power in Asia-Pacific waters—a hotspot for both geopolitical strategy and maritime trade routes. Stay tuned for updates as tensions unfold.
