The Philippines on Monday warned China that what it described as the frequent presence of Chinese ships in a disputed area of the South China Sea could potentially spark renewed tensions between the neighbors.
Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said that Chinese vessels are regularly seen in an area called the Reed Bank, which is potentially rich in oil and natural gas.
Chinese vessels’ presence in the area is “part of a pattern of illegitimate sovereignty patrols in the Philippine EEZ pursuant to China’s unilateral effort to change the status of the South China Sea,” said Mr. Jose, referring to the 200 nautical-mile exclusive economic zone set under a United Nations’ convention. A diplomatic protest will soon be lodged with the Chinese Embassy in Manila, Mr. Jose said.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
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Cris Larano, Wall Street Journal via CHINA US Focus http://ift.tt/Yp6pZe
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