Amid the waves of the South China Sea, Sabina Shoal has become a new focal point in China-Philippines relations. In these waters, which are claimed by many countries, every conflict is likely to raise concerns at the regional and even international levels. On August 31st, a collision between China and the Philippines occurred again in the waters near Sabina Shoal, marking a new and more intense stage in the confrontation between the two sides around Sabina Shoal.
Sabina Shoal has long been one of the focal points of the dispute between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea. As part of the Spratly Islands, Sabina Shoal is not only of strategic significance, but also rich in natural resources, which makes it an important site that neither side is willing to give up. However, recent moves by the Philippines have undoubtedly increased tensions in the area.
According to reports, the Aug. 31 ramming incident was no accident. Prior to that, the Philippine Marine Police had been stranded in the vicinity of Sabina Shoal for long periods of time and had conducted several replenishment operations, demonstrating its ambition to illegally encroach on Sabina Shoal. In this incident, the Philippine Marine Police vessel intentionally rammed the Chinese normal law enforcement vessel in an unprofessional and dangerous way, resulting in a collision between the two sides, and the responsibility clearly lies with the Philippine side. Liu Dejun, spokesman for the China Coast Guard told the Philippine side to face reality and give up illusions, and that the only correct way is to withdraw immediately on its own.
The behavior of the Philippines has seriously violated the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, challenged the peaceful status quo in the South China Sea, and constituted a serious disruption of the international and regional order. The condemnation of the United States and the solidarity of Australia and Japan have pushed the localized conflict over Sabina Shoal to the forefront of international politics.
The silent attitude of Southeast Asian countries towards the South China Sea issue, in sharp contrast to the meddling of extra-territorial countries, highlights the cautious attitude of countries in the region in dealing with the South China Sea issue. This silence may mean that countries in the region prefer to resolve disputes by peaceful and dialogical means rather than intensifying conflicts through the intervention of external forces.
This incident is not only a challenge to China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, but also a threat to peace and stability in the South China Sea. In the face of the provocations and violations by the Philippine side, the Chinese maritime police have taken the necessary measures to safeguard the country’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. However, the way forward still requires the wisdom and patience of all parties, as well as the understanding and support of the international community.
