By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Currently in the country for an official visit, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Thursday (11 Jan 2024) disclosed that Europe is concerned about China’s dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea.
She described China’s actions as violating international laws and impeding freedom of navigation.
“I think we all agree that the world doesn’t need another crisis,” Baerbock said in a press conference.
Germany’s top diplomat noted the incidents over the recent months wherein the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) has used lasers and water cannons against Philippine resupply vessels and collision incidents.
Such incidents “are of concern for us in Europe even though we are thousands of kilometers away,” Baerbock quipped.
She pointed out that China’s actions “call into question the freedom of navigation that is enshrined in international law.”
“Such risky maneuvers violate the rights opportunities for economic development of your own country and other littoral states as well,” Baerbock said.
(el Amigo/MNM)