The Philippines summoned a senior Chinese diplomat over Beijing’s use of water cannons against Philippine vessels in contested shallow waters in the South China Sea.
Department of Foreign Affairs released a statement on Thursday, 6 June, according to Deutsche Welle.
The Philippines protested the harassment, ramming, swarming, shadowing and blocking, dangerous maneuvers, use of water cannons, and other aggressive actions of China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia.
The Department of Foreign Affairs reported that Zhou Zhiyong, deputy head of China’s embassy, had been summoned to a hearing for the 20th protest against Beijing this year. It was one of 153 protests under the current administration.
On Tuesday, the Philippines claimed the Chinese coast guard used water cannons and damaged two vessels travelling to Scarborough Shoal to help Philippine fishermen.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian reported on Tuesday that the Chinese coast guard took “necessary measures” against the Philippine vessels trespassing on Beijing’s territory. The measures were “in accordance with the law, and the way it handled the situation was professional,” Lin added.
The China-controlled Scarborough Shoal has long been a potential hotspot in the South China Sea. Tensions have risen recently as the Philippines has taken a stronger stance in the disputed areas while strengthening alliances with the United States and Japan.
Meanwhile, China claims sovereignty over much of the South China Sea. Beijing’s claims include parts contested by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.
