CNN
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In the latest clash between Manila and Beijing over their conflicting maritime claims, Philippine authorities announced on Monday that China has removed a floating barrier intended to prevent Filipino boats from fishing in a disputed area of the South China Sea.
The Philippine Coast Guard released video footage on Monday showing a Filipino diver cutting a 300-meter-long string of buoys near Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, a strategically significant reef and fishing ground located 130 miles west of Luzon.
The video depicts the diver, equipped with a simple mask and snorkel, slicing through the rope while onboard a rickety fishing boat with a small crew.
This video serves as a vivid portrayal of the ongoing power struggle in the South China Sea, as the Philippines seeks to resist China’s increasingly assertive claims to the contested waterway.
On Sunday, Philippine authorities alleged that three Chinese Coast Guard boats and a Chinese maritime militia service boat had set up the barrier after a Philippine government vessel arrived in the area.
“The barrier posed a hazard to navigation, which is a clear violation of international law,” stated the Philippine Coast Guard on Monday, emphasizing that the barrier also encroached upon Philippine sovereignty.
During a regular press briefing on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin warned the Philippines against provocation or seeking trouble, asserting that China is determined to protect its sovereignty and maritime interests over Huangyan Island, the Chinese name for Scarborough Shoal.
Wang Wenbin added, “We advise the Philippines not to make provocations or seek troubles.”
China claims “indisputable sovereignty” over nearly all of the South China Sea, encompassing 1.3 million square miles, as well as the majority of islands and sandbars within it, even those located far from China’s mainland.
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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
