Manila, September 10 (Daily Kiran) : Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. responded sharply to China’s recent comments, stating, “I am not an actor.” His remarks came during a press conference in Manila, where he addressed China’s dismissive attitude following his criticism of Beijing’s stance on the South China Sea.
During a press briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning labeled Teodoro’s comments as “theatrical.” This reaction followed Teodoro’s condemnation of China’s position regarding the 2016 arbitration ruling on the South China Sea, which favored the Philippines.
Teodoro highlighted previous statements made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi regarding Mischief Reef, questioning the sincerity of claims that the area would not be militarized. He stated, “What could be more theatrical than Wang Yi claiming that Mischief Reef is for peaceful purposes and that they would never militarize it?”
At a regional security forum in Seoul, Teodoro received a note from Beijing rejecting the 2016 ruling, which he described as an attempt to intimidate and assert dominance in the South China Sea. He noted that the communication seemed to challenge the principles of international law outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Teodoro read excerpts from this note, which asserted that the arbitration decision violated fundamental principles of international law and was therefore invalid. He expressed that his reaction to the note was instinctive, emphasizing the need for civility and respect in international relations.
He dismissed suggestions that his comments were premeditated, insisting that any questions regarding the event should be directed to the Korean organizers. Teodoro remarked, “I have great respect for my Korean brothers and sisters to suggest that anything was planned.”
The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled overwhelmingly in favor of the Philippines in July 2016, declaring that key elements of China’s claims, including the controversial nine-dash line, were illegal. China has consistently rejected the ruling, deeming it invalid.
The South China Sea is one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes, claimed in whole or in part by China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. This competition for territorial claims has led to frequent confrontations between coast guard and naval vessels, making the area a significant strategic hotspot in the Indo-Pacific region.
Leave a Comment