Beijing – June 5, 2025China has issued a strong warning to the European Union, calling on the bloc to stop what it described as provocations in the South China Sea. The statement follows critical remarks from a top EU official over Beijing’s activities in the contested region.The response came via China’s embassy in Manila on Thursday, shortly after the EU’s foreign policy chief expressed concern about what she referred to as China’s “coercive activities” in the strategically vital waters.A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy urged the EU to “genuinely respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests” and to refrain from interfering in regional affairs. The embassy also cautioned the Philippines against relying on external forces in resolving maritime disputes.These remarks followed a high-level meeting in Manila earlier in the week between the EU and Philippine officials, during which both parties announced plans to launch a security and defence dialogue. The initiative aims to enhance cooperation on countering foreign interference, cyber threats, and disinformation.In a joint statement, the EU and the Philippines criticised recent Chinese actions in the South China Sea, labeling them as “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive” against Philippine vessels and aircraft engaged in lawful operations.The EU reaffirmed its support for a rules-based international order and rejected any unilateral efforts to alter the status quo through intimidation or force.The South China Sea remains a focal point of geopolitical tensions, with overlapping territorial claims by multiple Southeast Asian nations. Despite a 2016 international tribunal ruling against its expansive claims, China continues to assert sovereignty over nearly the entire sea, prompting repeated clashes with regional neighbours.The latest exchange highlights deepening global concerns over stability in one of the world’s most crucial maritime trade routes.
