Philippine&nbsp;President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday he was prepared to send his military ships in the South China Sea to "stake a claim" over oil and mineral resources in the disputed part of the strategic waterway.

With some critics complaining Duterte had gone soft by refusing to push Beijing to comply with an arbitration ruling, he said the public can be assured he would assert the country's claims to resources like oil and minerals in the South China Sea.

"I'm not so much interested now in fishing. I don't think there's enough fish to quarrel about. But when we start to mine, when we start to get whatever it is in the bowels of the China Sea, our oil, by that time I will send my grey ships there to stake a claim," Duterte said in a late night public address.

"If they start drilling oil there, I will tell China, is that part of our agreement? If that is not part of our agreement, I will also drill oil there," he said even as he reiterated he wanted to remain friends with Beijing.

Duterte has sought to build an alliance with China and has been reluctant to confront its leadership, having been promised billions of dollars of loans and investments, much of which have yet to materialise, frustrating nationalists.

He has repeatedly said the&nbsp;Philippines was powerless to stop China, and that challenging its activities could risk a war his country would lose.

The firebrand leader said there was no way for the&nbsp;Philippines to enforce "without any bloodshed" a landmark 2016 arbitral ruling that clarified the&nbsp;Philippines sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The&nbsp;Philippines has filed several diplomatic protests against China's actions in the South China Sea, with the latest accusing its giant neighbour of undertaking illegal fishing and massing more than 240 boats within its territorial waters.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday he was prepared to send his military ships in the South China Sea to "stake a claim" over oil and mineral resources in the disputed part of the strategic waterway.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday he was prepared to send his military ships in the South China Sea to "stake a claim" over oil and mineral resources in the disputed part of the strategic waterway. With some critics complaining Duterte had gone soft by refusing to push Beijing to comply with an arbitration ruling, he said the public can be assured he would assert the country's claims to resources like oil and minerals in the South China Sea. "I'm not so much interested now in fishing. I don't think there's enough fish to quarrel about. But when we start to mine, when we start to get whatever it is in the bowels of the China Sea, our oil, by that time I will send my grey ships there to stake a claim," Duterte said in a late night public address. "If they start drilling oil there, I will tell China, is that part of our agreement? If that is not part of our agreement, I will also drill oil there," he said even as he reiterated he wanted to remain friends with Beijing. Duterte has sought to build an alliance with China and has been reluctant to confront its leadership, having been promised billions of dollars of loans and investments, much of which have yet to materialise, frustrating nationalists. He has repeatedly said the Philippines was powerless to stop China, and that challenging its activities could risk a war his country would lose. The firebrand leader said there was no way for the Philippines to enforce "without any bloodshed" a landmark 2016 arbitral ruling that clarified the Philippines sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone. The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Philippines has filed several diplomatic protests against China's actions in the South China Sea, with the latest accusing its giant neighbour of undertaking illegal fishing and massing more than 240 boats within its territorial waters.

Philippines' Duterte says he will send navy ships in South China Sea to assert claim over resources

President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga showcased the alliance between their two countries as well as their shared resolve in dealing with China as they met at the White House on Friday in Biden's first face-to-face talks with a foreign leader as president.&nbsp;

The talks featured unusually frank warnings from a Japanese leader against any effort by China to dominate the Indo-Pacific region by 'force or coercion’.&nbsp;

Suga said the visit was meant to ‘reaffirm the new and tight bond between us' as the US and Japan deal with challenges in the region.&nbsp;

Suga and Biden, who wore masks for their meeting in a visit modified by precautions against the coronavirus, were seeking to challenge messaging from Chinese President Xi Jinping that America and democracies in general are on the decline following the political turmoil and international withdrawal that marked Donald Trump's presidency.&nbsp;

In a news conference afterward in the Rose Garden, Suga made repeated references to the 'severe security environment' in East Asia, where China under Xi is exerting its economic and military strength, including with military deployments meant to assert its disputed territorial claims in the region.&nbsp;

Suga broke from past Japanese leaders on Friday by not veiling his comments about China, an important economic partner for Japan. &nbsp;

The prime minister said he and Biden held 'serious talks on China's influence over the peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific. We oppose any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion.'&nbsp;

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had warned his Japanese counterpart in a call ahead of Suga's visit to see to it that China-Japan relations 'do not get involved in the so-called confrontation between major countries,' according to a Chinese government readout.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga showcased the alliance between their two countries as well as their shared resolve in dealing with China as they met at the White House on Friday in Biden's first face-to-face talks with a foreign leader as president.

President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga showcased the alliance between their two countries as well as their shared resolve in dealing with China as they met at the White House on Friday in Biden's first face-to-face talks with a foreign leader as president. The talks featured unusually frank warnings from a Japanese leader against any effort by China to dominate the Indo-Pacific region by 'force or coercion’. Suga said the visit was meant to ‘reaffirm the new and tight bond between us' as the US and Japan deal with challenges in the region. Suga and Biden, who wore masks for their meeting in a visit modified by precautions against the coronavirus, were seeking to challenge messaging from Chinese President Xi Jinping that America and democracies in general are on the decline following the political turmoil and international withdrawal that marked Donald Trump's presidency. In a news conference afterward in the Rose Garden, Suga made repeated references to the 'severe security environment' in East Asia, where China under Xi is exerting its economic and military strength, including with military deployments meant to assert its disputed territorial claims in the region. Suga broke from past Japanese leaders on Friday by not veiling his comments about China, an important economic partner for Japan. The prime minister said he and Biden held 'serious talks on China's influence over the peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific. We oppose any attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion.' Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had warned his Japanese counterpart in a call ahead of Suga's visit to see to it that China-Japan relations 'do not get involved in the so-called confrontation between major countries,' according to a Chinese government readout. (With inputs from agencies)

US, Japan showcase alliance, resolve in dealing with aggressive China 

Philippine foreign policy experts and lawmakers have asked President Rodrigo Duterte to end his "policy of subservience" towards China, saying the Filipino leader's silence is leading to hundreds of Chinese vessels lining up in Manila's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea.

Though military chief and country's top diplomat have asked China to withdraw its vessels from the region, Duterte has maintained his silence over the issue.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-south-china-sea-china-and-us-send-warships-into-disputed-waters-375776/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier his spokesperson said that the Filipino president is pursuing "diplomatic initiatives" in "private".&nbsp;

On Thursday, the Philippine Coast Guard said that despite continual demands to Chinese vessels to leave Whitsun Reef, at least 240 Chinese vessels were present in the area till Wednesday, Al Jazeera reported.&nbsp;

The ships were first seen on March 7 at Whitsun Reef, which is about 320 km (200 miles) west of Palawan Island and in the Philippine EEZ, according to the International Court of Arbitration at The Hague.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="wionews.com/world/philippines-summons-chinese-ambassador-over-reef-dispute-in-south-china-sea-377299">Philippines summons Chinese ambassador over reef dispute in South China Sea&nbsp;</a> 
&nbsp;

Opposition Senator Leila de Lima on Thursday said that the country could become "just another one of China's satellites" if Duterte and the Philippines military fail to confront Beijing.&nbsp;

She also said that despite the US's support regarding Manila's position in the South China Sea, the Filipino president's "policy of grovelling before China" could damage the integrity of the country's territory. &nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Philippine foreign policy experts and lawmakers have asked President Rodrigo Duterte to end his "policy of subservience" towards China, saying the Filipino leader's silence is leading to hundreds of Chinese vessels lining up in Manila's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea.

Philippine foreign policy experts and lawmakers have asked President Rodrigo Duterte to end his "policy of subservience" towards China, saying the Filipino leader's silence is leading to hundreds of Chinese vessels lining up in Manila's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea. Though military chief and country's top diplomat have asked China to withdraw its vessels from the region, Duterte has maintained his silence over the issue. Watch | Earlier his spokesperson said that the Filipino president is pursuing "diplomatic initiatives" in "private". On Thursday, the Philippine Coast Guard said that despite continual demands to Chinese vessels to leave Whitsun Reef, at least 240 Chinese vessels were present in the area till Wednesday, Al Jazeera reported. The ships were first seen on March 7 at Whitsun Reef, which is about 320 km (200 miles) west of Palawan Island and in the Philippine EEZ, according to the International Court of Arbitration at The Hague. Also read | Philippines summons Chinese ambassador over reef dispute in South China Sea Opposition Senator Leila de Lima on Thursday said that the country could become "just another one of China's satellites" if Duterte and the Philippines military fail to confront Beijing. She also said that despite the US's support regarding Manila's position in the South China Sea, the Filipino president's "policy of grovelling before China" could damage the integrity of the country's territory.

Philippine President Duterte asked to confront China in South China Sea

Is China trying to capture a new island in the South China Sea? Experts say Beijing wants to take control of the Dongsha Islands by July this year. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Is China trying to capture a new Island?

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question.

"The Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and core interests. There is zero room for compromise and not an inch to give. We urge the U.S. side to grasp the situation, earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, and avoid sending any wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" forces, lest it should shake the foundation of China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," he added. 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-south-china-sea-china-and-us-send-warships-into-disputed-waters-375776/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The U.S. State Department’s Friday decision to deepen relations with self-ruled Taiwan came amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island, including almost daily air force incursions into Taiwan’s air defence zone.

Taiwan is China’s most sensitive territorial and diplomatic issue and a regular source of Sino-U.S. friction. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratically ruled island under its control.

Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced days before the end of former President Donald Trump’s presidency in January that he was lifting restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts.

While Washington officially recognises Beijing rather than

Taipei, like most countries, the United States is Taiwan’s most important international supporter and arms seller.

The United States is required by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself.

China believes the United States is colluding with Taiwan to challenge Beijing and giving support to those who want the island to declare formal independence.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen says the island is an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, and that she will defend its freedom and security.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question.

The Chinese government has warned the United States to refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said that the so-called guidelines for US government interaction with Taiwan counterparts blatantly encourages US government engagement with Taiwan, which severely violates the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués and runs counter to the serious political commitment the US has made to China on the Taiwan question. "The Taiwan question concerns China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and core interests. There is zero room for compromise and not an inch to give. We urge the U.S. side to grasp the situation, earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiqués, refrain from playing with fire, immediately stop official contact with Taiwan in any form, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, and avoid sending any wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" forces, lest it should shake the foundation of China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," he added. The U.S. State Department’s Friday decision to deepen relations with self-ruled Taiwan came amid stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island, including almost daily air force incursions into Taiwan’s air defence zone. Taiwan is China’s most sensitive territorial and diplomatic issue and a regular source of Sino-U.S. friction. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the democratically ruled island under its control. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced days before the end of former President Donald Trump’s presidency in January that he was lifting restrictions on contacts between U.S. officials and their Taiwanese counterparts. While Washington officially recognises Beijing rather than Taipei, like most countries, the United States is Taiwan’s most important international supporter and arms seller. The United States is required by law to provide the island with the means to defend itself. China believes the United States is colluding with Taiwan to challenge Beijing and giving support to those who want the island to declare formal independence. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen says the island is an independent country called the Republic of China, its formal name, and that she will defend its freedom and security. (With inputs from agencies)

Stop any form of US-Taiwan official contacts: China warns America

The Philippine government summoned the Chinese ambassador to press its demand for Chinese vessels to immediately leave a reef claimed by Manila in the South China Sea and said their presence was stoking tensions, officials said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The escalating feud between Manila and Beijing started after more than 200 Chinese vessels suspected by Philippine authorities to be operated by militias were spotted early last month at Whitsun Reef. The Philippine government demanded the vessels leave then deployed coast guard and patrol vessels to the area but China said it owns the reef and the Chinese vessels were sheltering from rough seas.&nbsp;

After summoning Ambassador Huang Xilian on Monday, Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Elizabeth Buensuceso expressed to him Manila's displeasure over the illegal lingering presence of Chinese vessels around Julian Felipe Reef, the foreign affairs department said in a statement, using the Philippine name for Whitsun Reef in the most hotly disputed Spratlys region of the busy waterway.&nbsp;

"The continuing presence of Chinese vessels around the reef is a source of regional tension," Buensuceso said.&nbsp;

She reiterated to Huang that the reef, which lies about 175 nautical miles (324 kilometres) west of the Philippine province of Palawan, is within an internationally recognised offshore zone where Manila has the exclusive right to exploit fisheries, oil, gas and other resources.&nbsp;

She also cited a 2016 ruling in an international arbitration case the Philippines brought against China that invalidated Beijing's vast claims on historical grounds to virtually all of the South China Sea under a 1982 UN Maritime treaty.&nbsp;

The Philippine military has said aerial surveillance showed some of the Chinese vessels have left the reef but more than 40 remained moored in the area in late March. It debunked China's claim that the vessels were sheltering from rough seas saying the weather has been fine around the reef.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Philippine government summoned the Chinese ambassador to press its demand for Chinese vessels to immediately leave a reef claimed by Manila in the South China Sea and said their presence was stoking tensions, officials said on Tuesday.

The Philippine government summoned the Chinese ambassador to press its demand for Chinese vessels to immediately leave a reef claimed by Manila in the South China Sea and said their presence was stoking tensions, officials said on Tuesday. The escalating feud between Manila and Beijing started after more than 200 Chinese vessels suspected by Philippine authorities to be operated by militias were spotted early last month at Whitsun Reef. The Philippine government demanded the vessels leave then deployed coast guard and patrol vessels to the area but China said it owns the reef and the Chinese vessels were sheltering from rough seas. After summoning Ambassador Huang Xilian on Monday, Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Elizabeth Buensuceso expressed to him Manila's displeasure over the illegal lingering presence of Chinese vessels around Julian Felipe Reef, the foreign affairs department said in a statement, using the Philippine name for Whitsun Reef in the most hotly disputed Spratlys region of the busy waterway. "The continuing presence of Chinese vessels around the reef is a source of regional tension," Buensuceso said. She reiterated to Huang that the reef, which lies about 175 nautical miles (324 kilometres) west of the Philippine province of Palawan, is within an internationally recognised offshore zone where Manila has the exclusive right to exploit fisheries, oil, gas and other resources. She also cited a 2016 ruling in an international arbitration case the Philippines brought against China that invalidated Beijing's vast claims on historical grounds to virtually all of the South China Sea under a 1982 UN Maritime treaty. The Philippine military has said aerial surveillance showed some of the Chinese vessels have left the reef but more than 40 remained moored in the area in late March. It debunked China's claim that the vessels were sheltering from rough seas saying the weather has been fine around the reef. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines summons Chinese ambassador over reef dispute in South China Sea 

China has been claiming islands in South China Sea since 1974. Now it is eyeing and moving to gain control of Dongsha islands.

Dongsha islands are a part of Taiwan. There are no permanent residents. But Taiwanese marines are stationed there. The islands are located 275 miles from the Taiwanese municipality of Kaohsiung.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-china-trying-to-capture-a-new-island-377154/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

They are close to Hong Kong, located between China, Taiwan and the Philippines. reports of China trying to capture the islands emerged in 2020.

Taiwan's F-16s began patrolling the area. China sent more drones. And Taiwan drew the line. It said it will open fire and&nbsp;shoot down the Chinese drones, if needed.

China wants these islands just to make point of its 'sovereignty' over Taiwan. The Chinese Communist Party will celebrate its 100th anniversary on July 23. It wants to make a point. And Dongsha makes for an easy target.

It's small, has flat geography. Which means it's hard to defend. Plus, it is strategically located.

A Chinese aircraft carrier has entered the South China Sea. The announcement was made by Chinese mouthpiece the Global Times. The aircraft carrier is called the Liao Ning. It's not alone. China has more than 200 military vessels in the region. It's a&nbsp;clear provocation.

A response has come from the US. America has stationed aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. The flat-top was carrying out an exercise in the South China Sea. It was being joined by American assault ship USS Makin Island. There were also destroyers, smaller ships, and a cruiser involved.

The American ships carried out a drill just a day before the Liao Ning decided to pivot towards the South China Sea.

Are these two developments related?

The world says yes but China says no. Chinese experts claim that it's just a coincidence.

The article in Global Times speaks at length about a hypothetical war in Taiwan. It says, "PLA aircraft carriers operating on the east side of Taiwan can isolate the island's forces from foreign intervention".

USA's response is clear. Any attempt to alter the status quo will be a serious mistake. US and the Philippines have already begun a joint drill called Balikatan exercises. They will go on for 2 weeks.

China is chasing its geopolitical ambitions in the South China Sea. Islands big and small are standing up to it aided by military powers.

The confrontation is building up and We haven't heard the last of this.

China has been claiming islands in South China Sea since 1974. Now it is eyeing and moving to gain control of Dongsha islands. Dongsha islands are a part of Taiwan.

China has been claiming islands in South China Sea since 1974. Now it is eyeing and moving to gain control of Dongsha islands. Dongsha islands are a part of Taiwan. There are no permanent residents. But Taiwanese marines are stationed there. The islands are located 275 miles from the Taiwanese municipality of Kaohsiung. They are close to Hong Kong, located between China, Taiwan and the Philippines. reports of China trying to capture the islands emerged in 2020. Taiwan's F-16s began patrolling the area. China sent more drones. And Taiwan drew the line. It said it will open fire and shoot down the Chinese drones, if needed. China wants these islands just to make point of its 'sovereignty' over Taiwan. The Chinese Communist Party will celebrate its 100th anniversary on July 23. It wants to make a point. And Dongsha makes for an easy target. It's small, has flat geography. Which means it's hard to defend. Plus, it is strategically located. A Chinese aircraft carrier has entered the South China Sea. The announcement was made by Chinese mouthpiece the Global Times. The aircraft carrier is called the Liao Ning. It's not alone. China has more than 200 military vessels in the region. It's a clear provocation. A response has come from the US. America has stationed aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. The flat-top was carrying out an exercise in the South China Sea. It was being joined by American assault ship USS Makin Island. There were also destroyers, smaller ships, and a cruiser involved. The American ships carried out a drill just a day before the Liao Ning decided to pivot towards the South China Sea. Are these two developments related? The world says yes but China says no. Chinese experts claim that it's just a coincidence. The article in Global Times speaks at length about a hypothetical war in Taiwan. It says, "PLA aircraft carriers operating on the east side of Taiwan can isolate the island's forces from foreign intervention". USA's response is clear. Any attempt to alter the status quo will be a serious mistake. US and the Philippines have already begun a joint drill called Balikatan exercises. They will go on for 2 weeks. China is chasing its geopolitical ambitions in the South China Sea. Islands big and small are standing up to it aided by military powers. The confrontation is building up and We haven't heard the last of this.

China makes moves around Dongsha Island in South China Sea

The US military has engaged in a form of "cognitive warfare" following the recent encounter between its warships and the Chinese navy.

On Sunday, the US released a photo that showed one of its guided-missile destroyers, the USS Mustin, shadowing the Liaoning group - a move that analysts said was designed to send a clear message to the Chinese.

The photo taken on Monday somewhere in the East China Sea showed the ship's captain, Commander Robert J Briggs, and his deputy Commander Richard D Slye watching the Liaoning, which was just a few thousand metres away.

"In the photo, Commander Briggs looks very relaxed with his feet up watching the Liaoning ship just a few thousand yards away, while his deputy is also sitting beside him, showing they take their PLA counterparts lightly," said Lu Li-Shih, a former instructor at Taiwan's Naval Academy in Kaohsiung.

"This staged photograph is definitely 'cognitive warfare' to show the US doesn't regard the PLA as an immediate threat."

(With inputs from agencies)

The US military has engaged in a form of "cognitive warfare" following the recent encounter between its warships and the Chinese navy. On Sunday, the US released a photo that showed one of its guided-missile destroyers, the USS Mustin, shadowing the Liaoning group - a move that analysts said was designed to send a clear message to the Chinese.

The US military has engaged in a form of "cognitive warfare" following the recent encounter between its warships and the Chinese navy. On Sunday, the US released a photo that showed one of its guided-missile destroyers, the USS Mustin, shadowing the Liaoning group - a move that analysts said was designed to send a clear message to the Chinese. The photo taken on Monday somewhere in the East China Sea showed the ship's captain, Commander Robert J Briggs, and his deputy Commander Richard D Slye watching the Liaoning, which was just a few thousand metres away. "In the photo, Commander Briggs looks very relaxed with his feet up watching the Liaoning ship just a few thousand yards away, while his deputy is also sitting beside him, showing they take their PLA counterparts lightly," said Lu Li-Shih, a former instructor at Taiwan's Naval Academy in Kaohsiung. "This staged photograph is definitely 'cognitive warfare' to show the US doesn't regard the PLA as an immediate threat." (With inputs from agencies)

'We're watching you': US Navy warns China amid the rising tension

China has drilled deep in the South China Sea to retrieve sediment core from the seabed, state media reported on Thursday, amid tensions over disputed waters with rival claimants Taiwan and the Philippines, as well as with the United States.

Chinese scientists on a marine research vessel used China’s homemade “Sea Bull II” drilling system to obtain a sediment core 231 metres (253 yards)long at a depth of 2,060 metres (6,760 feet), the official Xinhua news agency said.

The system can help explore natural gas hydrate resources in the seabed, Xinhua added, referring to the solid ice-like crystals formed from a mixture of methane and water that are touted as a promising source of energy.

It was unclear exactly where the drilling took place in the South China Sea, around 90% of which is claimed by Beijing as its territorial waters. Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam and Brunei also lay claim to parts of the sea, which has vast oil and gas potential.

Tensions in the region have escalated since a U.S. Navy strike group entered the South China Sea on Sunday. That came after the president of the Philippines, a U.S. ally, voiced concern about Chinese vessels massing in Manila’s 200-mile (320-km) exclusive economic zone.

Self-ruled Taiwan, which China also claims as its territory, has threatened to shoot down Chinese drones spotted circling the Taipei-controlled Pratas Islands in the South China Sea.

China’s oil and gas exploration activities in the South China Sea have stoked tensions before, notably when state-run China National Offshore Oil Corp (CNOOC) deployed a deepwater drilling rig in Vietnam-claimed waters in 2014.

China has drilled deep in the South China Sea to retrieve sediment core from the seabed, state media reported on Thursday, amid tensions over disputed waters with rival claimants Taiwan and the Philippines, as well as with the United States.

China has drilled deep in the South China Sea to retrieve sediment core from the seabed, state media reported on Thursday, amid tensions over disputed waters with rival claimants Taiwan and the Philippines, as well as with the United States. Chinese scientists on a marine research vessel used China’s homemade “Sea Bull II” drilling system to obtain a sediment core 231 metres (253 yards)long at a depth of 2,060 metres (6,760 feet), the official Xinhua news agency said. The system can help explore natural gas hydrate resources in the seabed, Xinhua added, referring to the solid ice-like crystals formed from a mixture of methane and water that are touted as a promising source of energy. It was unclear exactly where the drilling took place in the South China Sea, around 90% of which is claimed by Beijing as its territorial waters. Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam and Brunei also lay claim to parts of the sea, which has vast oil and gas potential. Tensions in the region have escalated since a U.S. Navy strike group entered the South China Sea on Sunday. That came after the president of the Philippines, a U.S. ally, voiced concern about Chinese vessels massing in Manila’s 200-mile (320-km) exclusive economic zone. Self-ruled Taiwan, which China also claims as its territory, has threatened to shoot down Chinese drones spotted circling the Taipei-controlled Pratas Islands in the South China Sea. China’s oil and gas exploration activities in the South China Sea have stoked tensions before, notably when state-run China National Offshore Oil Corp (CNOOC) deployed a deepwater drilling rig in Vietnam-claimed waters in 2014.

China drills in the disputed South China Sea as US naval patrol grows

The United States on Wednesday warned China against what the Philippines and Taiwan see as increasingly aggressive moves, reminding Beijing of Washington's obligations to its partners.

State Department spokesman Ned Price reiterated at a regular briefing that the US&nbsp;commitment to Taiwan was "rock solid."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-south-china-sea-china-and-us-send-warships-into-disputed-waters-375776/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"An armed attack against the Philippines' armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea, will trigger our obligations under the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," Price told reporters.

"We share the concerns of our Philippine allies regarding the continued reported massing of PRC maritime militia near the Whitsun Reef," Price said, referring to the People's Republic of China.

China sent more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone on Wednesday in a stepped-up show of force around the island Beijing claims as its own, and Taiwan's foreign minister said it would fight to the end if China attacks.

China, which claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea, has refused weeks of appeals by the Philippines to withdraw the vessels, which Manila says unlawfully entered its exclusive economic zone.

Price voiced "concern" about the Chinese moves, saying: "The United States maintains the capacity to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security or the social or economic system of the people on Taiwan."

He was using language from the Taiwan Relations Act, under which the United States is obliged to provide the island with the means to defend itself against Beijing.

President Joe Biden has vowed a robust defense of allies and, in a rare point of continuity with his predecessor Donald Trump, has supported strong pushback against Chinese assertiveness.

The democratic self-governed island has complained of repeated military activities by Beijing in recent months, with China's air force making almost daily forays in Taiwan's air defense identification zone. On Monday, China said an aircraft carrier group was exercising close to the island.

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said 15 Chinese aircraft, including 12 fighters, entered its air defense identification zone, with an anti-submarine aircraft flying to the south through the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines.

Taiwan's air force sent up aircraft to intercept and warn the Chinese away, the ministry added.

Adding to the stepped-up military activity, the US&nbsp;Navy said its John S. McCain guided-missile destroyer conducted a "routine" transit of the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday.

The United States on Wednesday warned China against what the Philippines and Taiwan see as increasingly aggressive moves, reminding Beijing of Washington's obligations to its partners.

The United States on Wednesday warned China against what the Philippines and Taiwan see as increasingly aggressive moves, reminding Beijing of Washington's obligations to its partners. State Department spokesman Ned Price reiterated at a regular briefing that the US commitment to Taiwan was "rock solid." "An armed attack against the Philippines' armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea, will trigger our obligations under the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," Price told reporters. "We share the concerns of our Philippine allies regarding the continued reported massing of PRC maritime militia near the Whitsun Reef," Price said, referring to the People's Republic of China. China sent more fighter jets into Taiwan's air defense zone on Wednesday in a stepped-up show of force around the island Beijing claims as its own, and Taiwan's foreign minister said it would fight to the end if China attacks. China, which claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea, has refused weeks of appeals by the Philippines to withdraw the vessels, which Manila says unlawfully entered its exclusive economic zone. Price voiced "concern" about the Chinese moves, saying: "The United States maintains the capacity to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security or the social or economic system of the people on Taiwan." He was using language from the Taiwan Relations Act, under which the United States is obliged to provide the island with the means to defend itself against Beijing. President Joe Biden has vowed a robust defense of allies and, in a rare point of continuity with his predecessor Donald Trump, has supported strong pushback against Chinese assertiveness. The democratic self-governed island has complained of repeated military activities by Beijing in recent months, with China's air force making almost daily forays in Taiwan's air defense identification zone. On Monday, China said an aircraft carrier group was exercising close to the island. Taiwan's Defence Ministry said 15 Chinese aircraft, including 12 fighters, entered its air defense identification zone, with an anti-submarine aircraft flying to the south through the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines. Taiwan's air force sent up aircraft to intercept and warn the Chinese away, the ministry added. Adding to the stepped-up military activity, the US Navy said its John S. McCain guided-missile destroyer conducted a "routine" transit of the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday.

US warns China over increasingly aggressive moves against Taiwan, Philippines

China and the United States have sent their warships into the disputed waters of the South China Sea. This comes amid growing tensions between the Philippines & China at Whitsun Reef. WION's Palki tells you how these deployments raise the risk of a military conflict.

Gravitas | South China Sea: China and US send warships into disputed waters

Taiwan government reported several aircraft breached the country’s air defence identification zone on April 5, one of which flew through the strategic Bashi Channel, south of the country.&nbsp;

Taiwan has complained of an increase in Chinese military activity near it in recent months, as China steps up efforts to assert its sovereignty over the democratically run island. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-reports-new-incursion-by-chinas-air-force-into-defence-zone-375512">Also read: Taiwan reports new incursion by China’s Air Force into defence zone</a> 
 
A Chinese carrier group is exercising near Taiwan and such drills will become regular, China's navy said late on Monday in a further escalation of tensions near the island that Beijing claims as its sovereign territory.

China's navy said the carrier group, lead by the Liaoning, the country's first aircraft carrier put into active service, was carrying out "routine" drills in the waters near Taiwan. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-vessels-in-south-china-sea-could-ignite-unwanted-hostilities-philippines-375511">Also read — Chinese vessels in South China Sea could ignite 'unwanted hostilities': Philippines</a> 
 
The aim is to "enhance its capability to safeguard national sovereignty, safety and development interests", it said.

"Similar exercises will be conducted regularly in the future," the navy added, without elaborating.

China's statement follows Taiwan's defence ministry reported a new incursion by China's air force into the island's air defence identification zone on Monday.

Taiwan's defence ministry said it had a "full grasp" of the situation in the air and at sea surrounding Taiwan and that it was "appropriately handling" the matter.

Japan's defence ministry said on Sunday that the Liaoning, accompanied by five escort ships, had transited the Miyako Strait on their way to the Pacific.

China's widely-read Global Times, published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily, noted the Nanchang, the first of a powerful new fleet of Type 055 destroyers that entered service last year, was part of the carrier group.

"The combination of aircraft carriers and Type 055 large destroyers will become a standard configuration of Chinese aircraft carrier task groups in the future," it added.

The Liaoning and its sister ship the Shandong have carried out drills or sailed near Taiwan before.

In December 2019, shortly before presidential and parliamentary elections in Taiwan, the Shandong sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait, a move condemned by Taiwan as attempted intimidation.

Taiwan is China's most sensitive territorial issue and a potential military flashpoint. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is overseeing a revamp of the island's military, rolling out new equipment such as "carrier killer" stealth corvettes.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan government reported several aircraft breached the country’s air defence identification zone on April 5, one of which flew through the strategic Bashi Channel, south of the country.

Taiwan government reported several aircraft breached the country’s air defence identification zone on April 5, one of which flew through the strategic Bashi Channel, south of the country. Taiwan has complained of an increase in Chinese military activity near it in recent months, as China steps up efforts to assert its sovereignty over the democratically run island. Also read: Taiwan reports new incursion by China’s Air Force into defence zone A Chinese carrier group is exercising near Taiwan and such drills will become regular, China's navy said late on Monday in a further escalation of tensions near the island that Beijing claims as its sovereign territory. China's navy said the carrier group, lead by the Liaoning, the country's first aircraft carrier put into active service, was carrying out "routine" drills in the waters near Taiwan. Also read — Chinese vessels in South China Sea could ignite 'unwanted hostilities': Philippines The aim is to "enhance its capability to safeguard national sovereignty, safety and development interests", it said. "Similar exercises will be conducted regularly in the future," the navy added, without elaborating. China's statement follows Taiwan's defence ministry reported a new incursion by China's air force into the island's air defence identification zone on Monday. Taiwan's defence ministry said it had a "full grasp" of the situation in the air and at sea surrounding Taiwan and that it was "appropriately handling" the matter. Japan's defence ministry said on Sunday that the Liaoning, accompanied by five escort ships, had transited the Miyako Strait on their way to the Pacific. China's widely-read Global Times, published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily, noted the Nanchang, the first of a powerful new fleet of Type 055 destroyers that entered service last year, was part of the carrier group. "The combination of aircraft carriers and Type 055 large destroyers will become a standard configuration of Chinese aircraft carrier task groups in the future," it added. The Liaoning and its sister ship the Shandong have carried out drills or sailed near Taiwan before. In December 2019, shortly before presidential and parliamentary elections in Taiwan, the Shandong sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait, a move condemned by Taiwan as attempted intimidation. Taiwan is China's most sensitive territorial issue and a potential military flashpoint. China has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is overseeing a revamp of the island's military, rolling out new equipment such as "carrier killer" stealth corvettes. (With inputs from agencies)

Aircraft carrier group exercising near Taiwan, drills will become regular: China

Tensions escalate between China and the Philippines over Chinese fishing fleets in the disputed South China Sea. The Philippines Defence Minister said that China was intending to occupy more areas in the disputed water.

Philippines says China wants to occupy more disputed areas

Amid tensions over the South China Sea, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-accuses-china-of-plans-to-occupy-more-features-in-south-china-sea-375301">Philippine</a> President Rodrigo Duterte's aides on Monday lashed out at China asserting that the presence of Chinese vessels in the disputed reef could ignite "unwanted hostilities".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-armada-fans-out-in-the-south-china-sea-374849/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Duterte's lawyer Salvador Panelo said that "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-military-finds-more-illegal-structures-in-south-china-sea-374914">China's</a> present territorial incursions is producing an unwelcome stain in their bond and may trigger unwanted hostilities that both countries would rather not pursue," adding, "the matter of territorial dispute has to be resolved in the diplomatic negotiating table or by the dictates of international law."

"We can negotiate on matters of mutual concern and benefit, but make no mistake about it - our sovereignty is non-negotiable," Panelo asserted.

Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had earlier accused China of planning to occupy more "features" in the disputed waters.

The Philippine foreign ministry said it would send a complaint "every day" on China's delay in pulling out the vessels. The ministry said China "blatantly infringed" on Philippine jurisdiction.

Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque said the country will not "give up even a single inch" of its "national territory or our exclusive economic zone (EEZ)."

The disputed South China Sea has many competing claims with Vietnam, China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei in dispute with China.

Panelo added that the Philippines will not be blinded by China's humanitarian gestures reffing to the coronavirus vaccines.

"We will not be blinded however by any act done by it in violation of international law and in derogation of our sovereign rights," Panelo said while adding that the Philippines appreciated the "humanitarian gesture" of China's intention to send the vaccine amid the pandemic.

China has reportedly invoked the so-called <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-philippines-officials-discuss-chinese-activities-in-south-china-sea-374715">nine-dash</a> line to justify its alleged rights over the South China Sea islands, however, it has largely ignored the international tribunal's 2016 decision that declared its assertion being without basis.

Amid tensions over the South China Sea, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's aides on Monday lashed out at China asserting that the presence of Chinese vessels in the disputed reef could ignite "unwanted hostilities".

Amid tensions over the South China Sea, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's aides on Monday lashed out at China asserting that the presence of Chinese vessels in the disputed reef could ignite "unwanted hostilities". Watch: Duterte's lawyer Salvador Panelo said that "China's present territorial incursions is producing an unwelcome stain in their bond and may trigger unwanted hostilities that both countries would rather not pursue," adding, "the matter of territorial dispute has to be resolved in the diplomatic negotiating table or by the dictates of international law." "We can negotiate on matters of mutual concern and benefit, but make no mistake about it - our sovereignty is non-negotiable," Panelo asserted. Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had earlier accused China of planning to occupy more "features" in the disputed waters. The Philippine foreign ministry said it would send a complaint "every day" on China's delay in pulling out the vessels. The ministry said China "blatantly infringed" on Philippine jurisdiction. Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque said the country will not "give up even a single inch" of its "national territory or our exclusive economic zone (EEZ)." The disputed South China Sea has many competing claims with Vietnam, China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei in dispute with China. Panelo added that the Philippines will not be blinded by China's humanitarian gestures reffing to the coronavirus vaccines. "We will not be blinded however by any act done by it in violation of international law and in derogation of our sovereign rights," Panelo said while adding that the Philippines appreciated the "humanitarian gesture" of China's intention to send the vaccine amid the pandemic. China has reportedly invoked the so-called nine-dash line to justify its alleged rights over the South China Sea islands, however, it has largely ignored the international tribunal's 2016 decision that declared its assertion being without basis.

Chinese vessels in South China Sea could ignite 'unwanted hostilities': Philippines

Philippines on Sunday accused Beijing of planning to occupy more "features" in the disputed South China Sea.

China claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea and has asserted its stance by building up small shoals and reefs into military bases with airstrips and port facilities.

Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei all have rival claims to the waters, which incorporate strategically crucial shipping lanes and could harbour oil and gas deposits. A fleet of more than 200 Chinese ships that sparked a diplomatic row last month after parking at Whitsun Reef off the Philippines is now scattered across the contested Spratly Islands.

Manila, to this end, called on Beijing to withdraw the "maritime militia" vessels from the area, saying their presence is unlawful. China refused, insisting they are fishing boats and are allowed to operate there.

But Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the vessels were there for other reasons.

"The continued presence of Chinese maritime militias in the area reveals their intent to further occupy features in the West Philippine Sea," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-philippines-officials-discuss-chinese-activities-in-south-china-sea-374715">Also read |&nbsp;US, Philippines officials discuss Chinese activities in South China Sea</a>

Lorenzana pointed to China's seizure of the Philippine-claimed Scarborough Shoal and Mischief Reef as previous examples of them "brazenly violating" his country's sovereignty.

On Saturday, Lorenzana rejected China's claims that the boats parked at Whitsun Reef -- and where dozens remained last week -- had been seeking shelter from bad weather.&nbsp;

The Chinese embassy in Manila called Lorenzana's statement "perplexing" and urged authorities to avoid "unprofessional remarks which may further fan irrational emotions".

Beijing often invokes the so-called nine-dash line to justify its apparent historic rights over most of the South China Sea, and it has ignored a 2016 international tribunal decision that declared this assertion as without basis.

The Philippines military recently spotted illegal man-made structures in the South China Sea near the area where hundreds of Chinese vessels had gathered last month.

Authorities documented these structures as illegal and man-made, which are visible on Union Banks in the South China Sea’s Spratly Islands.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-military-finds-more-illegal-structures-in-south-china-sea-374914">Also read |&nbsp;Philippines military finds more 'illegal' structures in South China Sea</a>

Philippines on Sunday accused Beijing of planning to occupy more "features" in the disputed South China Sea. China claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea and has asserted its stance by building up small shoals and reefs into military bases with airstrips and port facilities.

Philippines on Sunday accused Beijing of planning to occupy more "features" in the disputed South China Sea. China claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea and has asserted its stance by building up small shoals and reefs into military bases with airstrips and port facilities. Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei all have rival claims to the waters, which incorporate strategically crucial shipping lanes and could harbour oil and gas deposits. A fleet of more than 200 Chinese ships that sparked a diplomatic row last month after parking at Whitsun Reef off the Philippines is now scattered across the contested Spratly Islands. Manila, to this end, called on Beijing to withdraw the "maritime militia" vessels from the area, saying their presence is unlawful. China refused, insisting they are fishing boats and are allowed to operate there. But Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the vessels were there for other reasons. "The continued presence of Chinese maritime militias in the area reveals their intent to further occupy features in the West Philippine Sea," he said. Also read | US, Philippines officials discuss Chinese activities in South China Sea Lorenzana pointed to China's seizure of the Philippine-claimed Scarborough Shoal and Mischief Reef as previous examples of them "brazenly violating" his country's sovereignty. On Saturday, Lorenzana rejected China's claims that the boats parked at Whitsun Reef -- and where dozens remained last week -- had been seeking shelter from bad weather. The Chinese embassy in Manila called Lorenzana's statement "perplexing" and urged authorities to avoid "unprofessional remarks which may further fan irrational emotions". Beijing often invokes the so-called nine-dash line to justify its apparent historic rights over most of the South China Sea, and it has ignored a 2016 international tribunal decision that declared this assertion as without basis. The Philippines military recently spotted illegal man-made structures in the South China Sea near the area where hundreds of Chinese vessels had gathered last month. Authorities documented these structures as illegal and man-made, which are visible on Union Banks in the South China Sea’s Spratly Islands. Also read | Philippines military finds more 'illegal' structures in South China Sea

Philippines accuses China of plans to occupy more features in South China Sea

The Philippines military has spotted illegal man-made structures in the South China Sea near the area where hundreds of Chinese vessels had gathered last month.

Authorities have documented these structures as illegal and man-made, which are visible on Union Banks in the South China Sea’s Spratly Islands.

Military chief Cirilito Sobejana has claimed these structures are not very far from the islands claimed by the Philippines inside its exclusive economic zone.

While the structures can be seen in the area where Chinese vessels had massed last month, the Philippines has not yet named a country behind this act, as of now. The extent of construction of these structures is also not yet clear.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-philippines-discuss-chinese-militia-swarming-in-south-china-sea-374897">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-philippines-discuss-chinese-militia-swarming-in-south-china-sea-374897/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

These structures were discovered by the Philippines military’s maritime during one of their flight patrols over the South China Sea. The military has been regularly patrolling the area to monitor any and all activity by Chinese vessels, which are believed to be manned by their military.

“These constructions and other activities, economic or otherwise, are prejudicial to the peace, good order, and security of our territorial waters,” Lieutenant-General Sobejana said.

“Our efforts to dutifully perform our mandate to protect and advance our national interests in the area continue unhampered.”

Video footage shows hundreds of boats spread across Hughes, Gaven and Whitsun reefs. In some areas, boats are also moored in groups of two to seven.

The Philippines military has spotted illegal man-made structures in the South China Sea near the area where hundreds of Chinese vessels had gathered last month. Authorities have documented these structures as illegal and man-made, which are visible on Union Banks in the South China Sea’s Spratly Islands.

The Philippines military has spotted illegal man-made structures in the South China Sea near the area where hundreds of Chinese vessels had gathered last month. Authorities have documented these structures as illegal and man-made, which are visible on Union Banks in the South China Sea’s Spratly Islands. Military chief Cirilito Sobejana has claimed these structures are not very far from the islands claimed by the Philippines inside its exclusive economic zone. While the structures can be seen in the area where Chinese vessels had massed last month, the Philippines has not yet named a country behind this act, as of now. The extent of construction of these structures is also not yet clear. Watch | These structures were discovered by the Philippines military’s maritime during one of their flight patrols over the South China Sea. The military has been regularly patrolling the area to monitor any and all activity by Chinese vessels, which are believed to be manned by their military. “These constructions and other activities, economic or otherwise, are prejudicial to the peace, good order, and security of our territorial waters,” Lieutenant-General Sobejana said. “Our efforts to dutifully perform our mandate to protect and advance our national interests in the area continue unhampered.” Video footage shows hundreds of boats spread across Hughes, Gaven and Whitsun reefs. In some areas, boats are also moored in groups of two to seven.

Philippines military finds more 'illegal' structures in South China Sea

More than 200 Chinese ships descended on the disputed Spratly islands in what the Philippines described as a 'swarming and threatening' move. Beijing defended itself saying the vessels are Chinese shipping boats. WION's Palki decodes China's endgame in the South China Sea.

Gravitas: Chinese armada fans out in the South China Sea

Senior officials from the United States and the Philippines discussed their concerns over ongoing Chinese activities in the disputed South China Sea. The Philippines spotted as many as 200 Chinese militia ships at the Whitson reef which lies within the country's economic zone.

US, Philippines discuss Chinese 'militia' swarming in South China Sea

China has warned the United States not to cross its "red line" on Taiwan after a US envoy arrived on the island as part of a delegation from Palau, one of Taipei's 15 remaining allies.

John Hennessey-Niland, the US ambassador to the pacific island nation of Palau, was part of the delegation that came with Palauan president Surangel Whipps for a five-day trip. 
 
Full Video: China &amp; Taiwan clash at WION Global summit 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/full-video-china-taiwan-clash-at-wion-global-summit-372899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Taiwan is an island democracy that split from the mainland in 1949. Beijing continues to claim it as its territory.

The United States has no official relations with Taiwan's democratically elected government but has extensive informal ties.

Former US president Donald Trump, who left office in January, angered Beijing by sending cabinet officials to visit Taiwan in a show of support.

The ruling Communist Party has threatened to invade if Taiwan declares formal independence or delays talks on uniting with the mainland.

China has ramped up pressure to get Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty, including regularly flying fighter jets and bombers near Taiwan or into its air defence identification zone.

In March 2020, Chinese vessels rammed into a Taiwanese coast guard ship. In April 2020, a Chinese surveillance ship hit and sank a Vietnamese fishing boat.

China established new administrative districts in the disputed waters with official Chinese names. At least 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea have been named in Mandarin.

(With inputs from agencies)

China has warned the United States not to cross its "red line" on Taiwan after a US envoy arrived on the island as part of a delegation from Palau, one of Taipei's 15 remaining allies.

China has warned the United States not to cross its "red line" on Taiwan after a US envoy arrived on the island as part of a delegation from Palau, one of Taipei's 15 remaining allies. John Hennessey-Niland, the US ambassador to the pacific island nation of Palau, was part of the delegation that came with Palauan president Surangel Whipps for a five-day trip. Full Video: China & Taiwan clash at WION Global summit Taiwan is an island democracy that split from the mainland in 1949. Beijing continues to claim it as its territory. The United States has no official relations with Taiwan's democratically elected government but has extensive informal ties. Former US president Donald Trump, who left office in January, angered Beijing by sending cabinet officials to visit Taiwan in a show of support. The ruling Communist Party has threatened to invade if Taiwan declares formal independence or delays talks on uniting with the mainland. China has ramped up pressure to get Taiwan to accept Chinese sovereignty, including regularly flying fighter jets and bombers near Taiwan or into its air defence identification zone. In March 2020, Chinese vessels rammed into a Taiwanese coast guard ship. In April 2020, a Chinese surveillance ship hit and sank a Vietnamese fishing boat. China established new administrative districts in the disputed waters with official Chinese names. At least 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea have been named in Mandarin. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't cross 'red line' on Taiwan: China to the US

The South China Sea has once again become a region of conflict. China under its aggressive expansionist policy has found a new ground in the region, Whitsun Reef, where 220 Chinese vessels are currently moored through the area.

China eyes on Whitsun Reef in South China Sea

The national security advisers for the United States and the Philippines discussed their shared concerns over Chinese activities in the South China Sea in a call on Wednesday, the White House said.

The Philippines has described the presence of hundreds of Chinese boats inside its 200-mile exclusive economic zone at Whitsun Reef in the South China Sea as “swarming and threatening.”

Manila believes the vessels were manned by maritime militia. Chinese diplomats have said the boats were sheltering from rough seas and no militia were aboard.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Philippines national security adviser Hermogenes Esperon “agreed that the United States and the Philippines will continue to coordinate closely in responding to challenges in the South China Sea,” the White House said.

“Sullivan underscored that the United States stands with our Philippine allies in upholding the rules-based international maritime order, and reaffirmed the applicability of the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty in the South China Sea,” it added.

Canada, Australia, Japan and others have voiced concern about China’s intentions.

Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China and Vietnam have competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, through which at least $3.4 trillion of annual trade passes.

The national security advisers for the United States and the Philippines discussed their shared concerns over Chinese activities in the South China Sea in a call on Wednesday, the White House said.

The national security advisers for the United States and the Philippines discussed their shared concerns over Chinese activities in the South China Sea in a call on Wednesday, the White House said. The Philippines has described the presence of hundreds of Chinese boats inside its 200-mile exclusive economic zone at Whitsun Reef in the South China Sea as “swarming and threatening.” Manila believes the vessels were manned by maritime militia. Chinese diplomats have said the boats were sheltering from rough seas and no militia were aboard. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Philippines national security adviser Hermogenes Esperon “agreed that the United States and the Philippines will continue to coordinate closely in responding to challenges in the South China Sea,” the White House said. “Sullivan underscored that the United States stands with our Philippine allies in upholding the rules-based international maritime order, and reaffirmed the applicability of the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty in the South China Sea,” it added. Canada, Australia, Japan and others have voiced concern about China’s intentions. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China and Vietnam have competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, through which at least $3.4 trillion of annual trade passes.

US, Philippines officials discuss Chinese activities in South China Sea

The year was 2013. China was dragged to the Permanent Court of Arbitration. It faced a charge of threatening maritime entitlements and the status of features in the South China Sea. It was simply about breaking the law of the high seas.

The verdict came in 2016 and China was found guilty.

The court declared that China's 'nine-dash line' and its claim to historic rights in the South China Sea are both invalid under International Law.

It's been five years but after rejecting the ruling, China has continued to violate the law. It has built seven&nbsp;artificial islands in the South China Sea.

It is challenging maritime sovereignty of several countries. It violates the UNCLOS or the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

China has become a menace in waters that host traffic worth $3.4 billion in annual trade.

Some of the world's leading democracies are coming together in alliances against China.

And then there are smaller but perhaps, more important stakeholders in the South China Sea. They are coming together to press China and call out its maritime militia.

The president of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte recently expressed his concerns to the Chinese ambassador.

Duterte's spokesperson said, "The president said we are really concerned. Any country will be concerned with that number of ships."

The Philippines is protesting what it calls China's 'swarming and threatening presence' at the Whitsun Reef. The Whitsun Reef is claimed by China, the Philippines and Vietnam.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea under its nine-dash line. Now, China has reportedly moored over 200 vessels at the Whitsun Reef. All of these vehicles are within Manila's 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone.

Manila claims that these vehicles are being manned by the Chinese maritime militia. And if that's not a provocation enough, reports says China has also begun construction activities on one of its artificial islands.

It is being called a 'prelude to occupation'. This artificial island is also within the Philippines' EEZ.&nbsp;

Take a look at this tweet...

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Satellite imagery shows land cleared for new Chinese construction on Subi Reef in South China Sea. <a href="https://twitter.com/SCMPNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SCMPNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/ViCPRZnync">https://t.co/ViCPRZnync</a> <a href="https://t.co/oK6zZDZ8f6">pic.twitter.com/oK6zZDZ8f6</a>
— AMTI (@AsiaMTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/AsiaMTI/status/1374956712155746309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

While the Philippines called out Chinese aggressiveness at the Whitsun Reef, Vietnam was not far behind. Hanoi calls the reef- Da Ba Dau.

On 25th of March, it called on China to stop this violation and respect Vietnam's sovereignty.

Vietnam sent its coastguard vessels near the disputed area.

It said that the coastgard was 'exercising its duties as regulated by laws'.

The Philippines has deployed its air force.

China clearly is being challenged at sea. Things are not too comfortable in the mainland either.

Its crimes like the Uyghur genocide are being called out. The UK and the EU have already asked for access to Xinjiang. The UN is the latest to join the queue. The world body says that it is holding serious negotiations with China and that it wants unfettered access to Xinjiang.

"For us, it's important for the mission to take place, to be a mission that has unlimited access to what the human rights high commission want to visit. And this, of course, is the reason why a serious negotiation is at the present moment that taking place," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

In February, the UN's Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet called for a thorough assessment of the situation in Xinjiang. She cited reports of arbitrary detention, ill-treatment, sexual violence and forced labour. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, Bachelet's visit is being negotiated.

Where does all of this leave China?

The countries Beijing tried to silence with its vaccine diplomacy are now calling China out. Its aggressive posturing is being challenged. The world bodies China tried to bribe are now highlighting the genocide in Xinjiang.

Is the world finally coming together to make China pay?

The year was 2013. China was dragged to the Permanent Court of Arbitration. It faced a charge of threatening maritime entitlements and the status of features in the South China Sea.

The year was 2013. China was dragged to the Permanent Court of Arbitration. It faced a charge of threatening maritime entitlements and the status of features in the South China Sea. It was simply about breaking the law of the high seas. The verdict came in 2016 and China was found guilty. The court declared that China's 'nine-dash line' and its claim to historic rights in the South China Sea are both invalid under International Law. It's been five years but after rejecting the ruling, China has continued to violate the law. It has built seven artificial islands in the South China Sea. It is challenging maritime sovereignty of several countries. It violates the UNCLOS or the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. China has become a menace in waters that host traffic worth $3.4 billion in annual trade. Some of the world's leading democracies are coming together in alliances against China. And then there are smaller but perhaps, more important stakeholders in the South China Sea. They are coming together to press China and call out its maritime militia. The president of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte recently expressed his concerns to the Chinese ambassador. Duterte's spokesperson said, "The president said we are really concerned. Any country will be concerned with that number of ships." The Philippines is protesting what it calls China's 'swarming and threatening presence' at the Whitsun Reef. The Whitsun Reef is claimed by China, the Philippines and Vietnam. China claims almost the entire South China Sea under its nine-dash line. Now, China has reportedly moored over 200 vessels at the Whitsun Reef. All of these vehicles are within Manila's 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone. Manila claims that these vehicles are being manned by the Chinese maritime militia. And if that's not a provocation enough, reports says China has also begun construction activities on one of its artificial islands. It is being called a 'prelude to occupation'. This artificial island is also within the Philippines' EEZ. Take a look at this tweet... Satellite imagery shows land cleared for new Chinese construction on Subi Reef in South China Sea. @SCMPNews https://t.co/ViCPRZnync pic.twitter.com/oK6zZDZ8f6 — AMTI (@AsiaMTI) March 25, 2021 × While the Philippines called out Chinese aggressiveness at the Whitsun Reef, Vietnam was not far behind. Hanoi calls the reef- Da Ba Dau. On 25th of March, it called on China to stop this violation and respect Vietnam's sovereignty. Vietnam sent its coastguard vessels near the disputed area. It said that the coastgard was 'exercising its duties as regulated by laws'. The Philippines has deployed its air force. China clearly is being challenged at sea. Things are not too comfortable in the mainland either. Its crimes like the Uyghur genocide are being called out. The UK and the EU have already asked for access to Xinjiang. The UN is the latest to join the queue. The world body says that it is holding serious negotiations with China and that it wants unfettered access to Xinjiang. "For us, it's important for the mission to take place, to be a mission that has unlimited access to what the human rights high commission want to visit. And this, of course, is the reason why a serious negotiation is at the present moment that taking place," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. In February, the UN's Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet called for a thorough assessment of the situation in Xinjiang. She cited reports of arbitrary detention, ill-treatment, sexual violence and forced labour. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, Bachelet's visit is being negotiated. Where does all of this leave China? The countries Beijing tried to silence with its vaccine diplomacy are now calling China out. Its aggressive posturing is being challenged. The world bodies China tried to bribe are now highlighting the genocide in Xinjiang. Is the world finally coming together to make China pay?

Is World coming together against China in South China Sea?

"The United States stands with our ally, the Philippines, in the face of the PRC's maritime militia amassing at WhitsunReef. We will always stand by our allies and stand up for the rules-based international order," Blinken tweeted.

Blinken backs Philippines as hundreds of China vessels crowd disputed reef

Ten Chinese military aircraft including fighter jets entered the southwestern corner of&nbsp;Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Monday, the island's defence ministry said, in a further escalation of tension across the sensitive&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait.

The island's defence ministry said the air force deployed missiles to "monitor" the incursion into the southwestern part of its air defence identification zone. It also said its planes warned the Chinese aircraft, including by radio.

It marked the largest incursion to date by the Chinese air force since&nbsp;Taiwan's defence ministry began disclosing almost daily Chinese military flights over the waters between the southern part of&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands in the South China Sea last year.

Some of the Chinese aircraft flew in the airspace to the south of&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and passed through the Bashi Channel which separates the island from the Philippines,&nbsp;Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement.

China, which claims&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;as its own territory, has stepped up military activities near the democratic island in recent months, a move&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;says jeopardizes regional stability.

The presence of so many Chinese combat aircraft on Friday's mission -&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;said it was made up of four nuclear-capable H-6K bombers and 10 J-16 fighter jets, among others - was unusual and came as the island's air force suspended all training missions after two fighter jet crashes this week.

Earlier on Friday,&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;and the United States signed their first agreement under the administration of new president Joe Biden, establishing a Coast Guard Working Group to coordinate policy, after China's passing of a law that allows its coast guard to fire on foreign vessels.

While the United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Taiwan, it is bound by law to help&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;defend itself and is the island's main arms supplier.

Ten Chinese military aircraft including fighter jets entered the southwestern corner of Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Monday, the island's defence ministry said, in a further escalation of tension across the sensitive Taiwan Strait.

Ten Chinese military aircraft including fighter jets entered the southwestern corner of Taiwan's air defence identification zone on Monday, the island's defence ministry said, in a further escalation of tension across the sensitive Taiwan Strait. The island's defence ministry said the air force deployed missiles to "monitor" the incursion into the southwestern part of its air defence identification zone. It also said its planes warned the Chinese aircraft, including by radio. It marked the largest incursion to date by the Chinese air force since Taiwan's defence ministry began disclosing almost daily Chinese military flights over the waters between the southern part of Taiwan and the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands in the South China Sea last year. Some of the Chinese aircraft flew in the airspace to the south of Taiwan and passed through the Bashi Channel which separates the island from the Philippines, Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement. China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up military activities near the democratic island in recent months, a move Taiwan says jeopardizes regional stability. The presence of so many Chinese combat aircraft on Friday's mission - Taiwan said it was made up of four nuclear-capable H-6K bombers and 10 J-16 fighter jets, among others - was unusual and came as the island's air force suspended all training missions after two fighter jet crashes this week. Earlier on Friday, Taiwan and the United States signed their first agreement under the administration of new president Joe Biden, establishing a Coast Guard Working Group to coordinate policy, after China's passing of a law that allows its coast guard to fire on foreign vessels. While the United States, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, it is bound by law to help Taiwan defend itself and is the island's main arms supplier.

Taiwan reports large incursion by Chinese air force

The Philippine military is sending light fighter aircraft to fly over hundreds of Chinese vessels in disputed waters in the South China Sea, its defence minister said, as he repeated his demand the flotilla be withdrawn immediately.&nbsp;

International concern is growing over what the Philippines has described as a 'swarming and threatening presence' of more than 200 Chinese vessels that Manila believes were manned by maritime militia.&nbsp;

The boats were moored at the Whitsun Reef within Manila's 200-mile exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

The Philippine military aircraft were sent daily to monitor the situation, Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement late on Saturday.&nbsp;

Lorenzana said the military will also beef up its naval presence in the South China Sea to conduct 'sovereignty patrols' and protect Filipino fishermen.&nbsp;

"Our air and sea assets are ready to protect our sovereignty and sovereign rights," Lorenzana said.&nbsp;

The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It has said the vessels at Whitsun Reef were fishing boats taking refuge from rough seas and that there were no militia aboard.&nbsp;

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte reaffirmed to China's ambassador, Huang Xilian, the Philippines had won a landmark arbitration case in 2016, which made clear its sovereign entitlements amid rival claims by China, his spokesman said last week.&nbsp;

Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China and Vietnam have competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, through which at least $3.4 trillion of annual trade passes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Philippine military is sending light fighter aircraft to fly over hundreds of Chinese vessels in disputed waters in the South China Sea, its defence minister said, as he repeated his demand the flotilla be withdrawn immediately.

The Philippine military is sending light fighter aircraft to fly over hundreds of Chinese vessels in disputed waters in the South China Sea, its defence minister said, as he repeated his demand the flotilla be withdrawn immediately. International concern is growing over what the Philippines has described as a 'swarming and threatening presence' of more than 200 Chinese vessels that Manila believes were manned by maritime militia. The boats were moored at the Whitsun Reef within Manila's 200-mile exclusive economic zone. The Philippine military aircraft were sent daily to monitor the situation, Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement late on Saturday. Lorenzana said the military will also beef up its naval presence in the South China Sea to conduct 'sovereignty patrols' and protect Filipino fishermen. "Our air and sea assets are ready to protect our sovereignty and sovereign rights," Lorenzana said. The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It has said the vessels at Whitsun Reef were fishing boats taking refuge from rough seas and that there were no militia aboard. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte reaffirmed to China's ambassador, Huang Xilian, the Philippines had won a landmark arbitration case in 2016, which made clear its sovereign entitlements amid rival claims by China, his spokesman said last week. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China and Vietnam have competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, through which at least $3.4 trillion of annual trade passes. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines sends fighter aircraft over Chinese vessels in South China Sea

In a retaliatory move, the Philippine military is sending light fighter aircraft to fly over hundreds of Chinese vessel station in the disputed waters of the South China sea.

News Alert: Philippines accuses China of swarming presence

China's embassy in the Philippines has blamed 'some external countries' for stoking tensions in the region, in remarks aimed at Japan after its ambassador stressed the need for peace and stability and in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

China was criticised by the Philippines and the United States this week after Manila said there were about 220 vessels likely manned by Chinese maritime militia anchored in disputed waters.&nbsp;

"Within our region tensions are rising because some external countries are bent on playing fusty geopolitical games," the Chinese embassy said on Twitter.&nbsp;

"It is a pity that some Asian country, which has disputes in the East China Sea and is driven by the selfish aim to check China's revitalisation, willingly stoops as a strategic vassal of the US," it said.&nbsp;

The comment was a direct response to a Twitter remark by Japan's ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko, who on Tuesday said his country 'opposes any action that heightens tensions' in the South China Sea, and supports international efforts to keep the waters peaceful and open.&nbsp;

China's extensive territorial claims in the East and South China Seas have become a priority issue in an increasingly testy Sino-US relationship and are a security concern for Japan.&nbsp;

The Philippines complained to China at the weekend about what it called the 'swarming and threatening presence' of Chinese vessels at the Whitsun Reef.&nbsp;

China's mission in the Philippines said those were fishing vessels sheltering from rough seas. It also criticised the United States for 'fanning flames and provoking confrontation in the region'.&nbsp;

Philippine military chief Cirilito Sobejana on Wednesday said he had instructed the navy to deploy more boats 'to increase our visibility and ensure the security and safety of our fishermen'.&nbsp;

Sobejana said China's defence attache had met Philippine military representatives on Wednesday after being asked to explain the maritime militia, but he had yet to briefed on the meeting.&nbsp;

China's embassy in the Philippines has blamed 'some external countries' for stoking tensions in the region, in remarks aimed at Japan after its ambassador stressed the need for peace and stability and in the South China Sea.

China's embassy in the Philippines has blamed 'some external countries' for stoking tensions in the region, in remarks aimed at Japan after its ambassador stressed the need for peace and stability and in the South China Sea. China was criticised by the Philippines and the United States this week after Manila said there were about 220 vessels likely manned by Chinese maritime militia anchored in disputed waters. "Within our region tensions are rising because some external countries are bent on playing fusty geopolitical games," the Chinese embassy said on Twitter. "It is a pity that some Asian country, which has disputes in the East China Sea and is driven by the selfish aim to check China's revitalisation, willingly stoops as a strategic vassal of the US," it said. The comment was a direct response to a Twitter remark by Japan's ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko, who on Tuesday said his country 'opposes any action that heightens tensions' in the South China Sea, and supports international efforts to keep the waters peaceful and open. China's extensive territorial claims in the East and South China Seas have become a priority issue in an increasingly testy Sino-US relationship and are a security concern for Japan. The Philippines complained to China at the weekend about what it called the 'swarming and threatening presence' of Chinese vessels at the Whitsun Reef. China's mission in the Philippines said those were fishing vessels sheltering from rough seas. It also criticised the United States for 'fanning flames and provoking confrontation in the region'. Philippine military chief Cirilito Sobejana on Wednesday said he had instructed the navy to deploy more boats 'to increase our visibility and ensure the security and safety of our fishermen'. Sobejana said China's defence attache had met Philippine military representatives on Wednesday after being asked to explain the maritime militia, but he had yet to briefed on the meeting.

China embassy takes swipe at 'fusty' Japan over South China Sea 

The South China Sea dispute is in the headlines once again. This time for China's maritime militia boats that have alarmed the Philippines. What does this militia do? WION's Molly Gambhir gets you a report.

Gravitas: What are China's maritime Militias?

Historical accounts say Indians have been sailing the South China Sea for 1,500 years. Today, New Delhi has more in common with the region than China. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you what is at stake for India in the region.

Gravitas: What is at stake for India in the South China Sea?

More than 200 Chinese vessels - allegedly manned by militias - have been spotted at a disputed reef in the South China Sea. The Philippines has called on China to 'stop this incursion'. Is China making moves to seize disputed lands? WION's Molly Gambhir has more.

Gravitas: South China Sea: Is China making moves to seize disputed islands?

China is carrying out incursions, sinking foreign ships, establishing new districts, giving Chinese names to islands, building new artificial islands and using fishing vessels as maritime militias in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

Let us get to know about the strategic importance of the South China Sea and Beijing's never-ending nefarious activities in the region.&nbsp;

South China Sea is a strategic waterway surrounded by six nations, such as China, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. &nbsp;

Two groups of islands here are at the centre of a fierce territorial dispute. The first is the Paracel Archipelago, contested by China, Taiwan and Vietnam.&nbsp;

The second are the Spratly Islands, disputed between China and all other five nations. These islands are strategic because they are surrounded by waters teeming with marine life and are rich in oil and gas resources. &nbsp;

One-third of the world's shipping traffic also passes through the South China Sea. Beijing claims sovereignty over nearly the entire sea.&nbsp;

It uses a map from the 1940s to justify its territorial claims and military aggression aimed at making others accept its claims. &nbsp;

In March 2020, Chinese vessels rammed into a Taiwanese coast guard ship. In April 2020, a Chinese surveillance ship hit and sank a Vietnamese fishing boat.&nbsp;

The next month, China deployed an exploration vessel near Malaysia's exclusive economic zone. The frequency of harassment increased throughout 2020. Beijing strengthened its position amid the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

China established new administrative districts in the disputed waters with official Chinese names. At least 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea have been named in Mandarin.&nbsp;

The Global Times says the standardisation of names reflects China's sovereignty over them and to further strengthen these claims of sovereignty. China has established several artificial or man-made islands like the Fiery Cross and the Subi Reef, where Chinese research stations are conducting field navigation and scientific surveys.&nbsp;

Now, reports have emerged that Chinese maritime militias are operating in the area. These militias are primarily fishing vessels that are being used to augment the Chinese navy's operations.&nbsp;

The vessels possess sophisticated communication and GPS technology. They use swarm warfare tactics to enhance China's nefarious endeavours and assert Beijing's territorial claims. &nbsp;

These militias have become a critical feature of China's expansionist strategy and could trigger a fresh flare-up in the tense South China Sea.&nbsp;

China is carrying out incursions, sinking foreign ships, establishing new districts, giving Chinese names to islands, building new artificial islands and using fishing vessels as maritime militias in the South China Sea.

China is carrying out incursions, sinking foreign ships, establishing new districts, giving Chinese names to islands, building new artificial islands and using fishing vessels as maritime militias in the South China Sea. Let us get to know about the strategic importance of the South China Sea and Beijing's never-ending nefarious activities in the region. South China Sea is a strategic waterway surrounded by six nations, such as China, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. Two groups of islands here are at the centre of a fierce territorial dispute. The first is the Paracel Archipelago, contested by China, Taiwan and Vietnam. The second are the Spratly Islands, disputed between China and all other five nations. These islands are strategic because they are surrounded by waters teeming with marine life and are rich in oil and gas resources. One-third of the world's shipping traffic also passes through the South China Sea. Beijing claims sovereignty over nearly the entire sea. It uses a map from the 1940s to justify its territorial claims and military aggression aimed at making others accept its claims. In March 2020, Chinese vessels rammed into a Taiwanese coast guard ship. In April 2020, a Chinese surveillance ship hit and sank a Vietnamese fishing boat. The next month, China deployed an exploration vessel near Malaysia's exclusive economic zone. The frequency of harassment increased throughout 2020. Beijing strengthened its position amid the coronavirus pandemic. China established new administrative districts in the disputed waters with official Chinese names. At least 25 islands and reefs in the South China Sea have been named in Mandarin. The Global Times says the standardisation of names reflects China's sovereignty over them and to further strengthen these claims of sovereignty. China has established several artificial or man-made islands like the Fiery Cross and the Subi Reef, where Chinese research stations are conducting field navigation and scientific surveys. Now, reports have emerged that Chinese maritime militias are operating in the area. These militias are primarily fishing vessels that are being used to augment the Chinese navy's operations. The vessels possess sophisticated communication and GPS technology. They use swarm warfare tactics to enhance China's nefarious endeavours and assert Beijing's territorial claims. These militias have become a critical feature of China's expansionist strategy and could trigger a fresh flare-up in the tense South China Sea.

Why South China Sea is a hotbed of confrontation

south-china-sea-0

South China Sea, News on South China Sea, stories on South China Sea, articles on South China Sea, South China Sea stories at Wion, South China Sea news, South China Sea latest news

south china-sea-0