LONDON – Britain on Monday condemned what it called “dangerous and escalatory tactics deployed by Chinese vessels” against the Philippines over the weekend in the South China Sea.
“The UK opposes any action that could cause tensions, including harassment, dangerous behavior and intimidation tactics that increase the risk of miscalculation and threaten regional peace and stability,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
“China and the Philippines must adhere to the findings of the 2016 arbitration award proceedings, which are legally binding on both parties,” he adds.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in London said Beijing firmly opposes and strongly condemns the United Kingdom’s “unfounded accusations”, and has lodged stern representations with the British side on this matter.
“We urge the British side to respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, stop causing trouble and sowing discord,” said the remarks published on the British side’s website. ’embassy. — Reuters