US-China Tensions Rise Over South China Sea at UN Debate

During a UN Security Council debate, the acting US representative to the United Nations criticized China's actions in the South China Sea, accusing them of using "dangerous and destabilizing ways" to enforce "expansive and unlawful maritime claims." The US representative used the debate to promote the 2016 "ruling" of the Arbitral Tribunal, which China rejects.

China's permanent representative to the UN, Fu Cong, responded to the US accusations. He stated that China's claims in the South China Sea have a historical and legal basis. He reiterated China's position on the "arbitration case," emphasizing that China does not recognize the "ruling" and rejects any claims based on it.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi previously explained China's position on the "arbitration" case. He noted that the case, initiated by the Philippines, lacked the necessary preconditions and violated the principle of state consent. Therefore, it lacked a legal basis.

The Philippines' actions also violated the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, which promotes peaceful resolution through consultation. Furthermore, it contradicted commitments made in bilateral agreements and breached international law principles.

The essence of the Philippine claims concerned China's territorial sovereignty and maritime delimitation, which are beyond the scope of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The arbitral tribunal's "ruling" also had factual and legal flaws, including misclassifying Taiping Island.

The US, despite not being a party to the treaty, frequently acts as a judge on matters covered by the convention. China views the US's actions as hypocritical, especially considering the illegal "arbitral ruling."

China has worked with ASEAN countries to maintain stability in the South China Sea through dialogue and consultation, respecting historical facts and international law. Freedom of navigation and overflight have been maintained, with the exception of incidents involving US naval vessels.

China's consistent approach to resolving disputes through dialogue has contributed to the generally stable situation in the South China Sea. However, the US's interference has complicated and destabilized the situation.

The US deploys offensive weapons, conducts military reconnaissance, and conducts military exercises under the guise of "freedom of navigation" operations, intruding into China's territorial waters and airspace. These actions contribute to turbulence in the South China Sea.

The US's actions aim to create discord between China and its neighboring countries as part of a broader geopolitical strategy. The US's interference and involvement are the primary sources of instability in the region, and its military deployment poses a threat to navigation security. The US's accusations against China are seen as a way to conceal its own intentions.