China’s army mentioned on Monday {that a} Philippine vessel “illegally entered” waters close to Scarborough Shoal with out authorisation and it urged the Philippines to instantly cease its provocations.

China and the Philippines have had a number of confrontations in disputed waters within the South China Sea, not too long ago buying and selling accusations a few collision between a Chinese coastguard vessel and a ship from the Philippines.

“We are urging the Philippine side to immediately stop its infringement and provocations, and earnestly avoid further escalation,” mentioned senior colonel Tian Junli, a spokesperson for the People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command.

The Scarborough Shoal is claimed by China, the Philippines and Taiwan.Read extra: WHO chief talks about his painful past in Israel-Hamas plea: ‘As a child I…’

“The Philippine side’s actions have seriously violated China’s sovereignty and international law and basic norms governing international relations, and are prone to misunderstanding and miscalculation,” Tian mentioned.

He mentioned China adopted, monitored, warned and blocked the ship in accordance with the legislation.

Beijing claims sovereignty over virtually your complete South China Sea, together with components of the unique financial zones of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

This has precipitated escalating maritime friction and territorial disputes.