G7 REBUKES CHINA FOR ‘INTIMIDATION AND MILITARIZATION’ IN SOUTH CHINA SEA

MANILA — The Group of Seven (G7) has voiced strong criticism against China’s aggressive militarization and intimidating actions in the South China Sea (SCS), particularly highlighting Beijing’s alarming maneuvers and use of water cannons against Filipino vessels conducting routine resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal.

In a statement released on Friday, the foreign ministers of the G7 nations condemned China’s “reckless deployment” of coast guard vessels and maritime militia to assert control over the strategically significant waterway.

“We express grave concern regarding the escalating tensions in the East and South China Seas and firmly oppose any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo through coercion or force,” the statement read.

The G7 reiterated its stance against China’s provocative use of coast guard and maritime militia forces in the South China Sea, as well as its repeated interference with the freedom of navigation of other nations, particularly highlighting the escalating incidents involving Filipino vessels.

The group underscored the absence of legal justification for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea and reiterated its support for the 2016 Arbitral Award.

“We reaffirm the significance of the Arbitral Tribunal’s ruling on July 12, 2016, which is legally binding on the parties involved and serves as a constructive framework for peacefully resolving disputes,” the statement emphasized.

Through the landmark decision, the Arbitral Tribunal invalidated China’s nine-dash line claim, stating that it exceeded the geographical and legal limits outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This demarcation, which encroaches upon the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, has been a focal point of contention in the region.

The G7, comprised of leading industrialized democracies including Canada, France, the United States, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom, stands united in advocating for maritime security and adherence to international law.

(el Amigo/MNM)