(PatriotNewsDaily.com) – The United States condemned China for its “aggressive, dangerous maneuvers” in the South China Sea after a Chinese vessel collided with a Philippine supply ship. The incident took place close to the Spratly Islands’ Second Thomas Shoal, on November 21st, 2023. The islands are part of a contested area.
The Philippines and China have both claimed that the other is responsible for the collision. The Philippines has the support of the United States, as it claims that the area is part of its exclusive economic zone. However, China has maintained its sovereignty over the territory.
Mary Kay Carlson, the U.S. ambassador to the Philippines, has stated that the incident resulted in bodily injuries and the Philippine vessel being damaged. She also reaffirmed that the United States continues to support the island nation.
The U.S. State Department pointed to the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty to point out that the Philippines has the country’s continued support. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller also condemned China for its usage of water cannons in a dangerous manner which is what resulted in the damage of the Philippine vehicle. He argued that these actions were a threat to the stability and peace in the region.
Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Philippine Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa Lazaro spoke about the incident during a call reaffirming that the relationship between the two countries is crucial to stability in the region.
According to the Chinese coast guard, the Philippine vessel ignored repeated warnings and was the one to approach the Chinese vessel. As such, it is to blame for the collision.
This incident occurs amid increasing tensions between Washington and Beijing.
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