China has strongly condemned Canada's support for the Philippines amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea.
The condemnation was expressed through a statement issued by a Chinese embassy spokesperson in Canada, accusing Canada of interfering in what China claims to be a matter of its national sovereignty, as per Reuters.
China Slams Canada in South China Sea Dispute
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 16: Chinese President Xi Jinping and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (R) stand with other world leaders for a "family photo" during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Week at Moscone Center on November 16, 2023 in San Francisco, California. The 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Week Summit is set to run through November 17, with more than 30,000 people including dozens of world leaders and hundreds of CEOs attending the event.
In a statement issued by the Chinese embassy, China expressed its concerns regarding Canada's participation in the maritime dispute in the South China Sea. The embassy emphasized that the South China Sea is a shared territory among countries in the region and should not be utilized as a platform for Canada, the United States, and other nations to pursue their geopolitical agendas.
In the ongoing tensions between China and the Philippines, the Second Thomas Shoal has emerged as a key focal point. This atoll, located in the South China Sea, has become an essential point of contention between the two nations. In recent weeks, the Philippines has leveled accusations against Chinese coast guard and maritime militia vessels, alleging their involvement in a series of aggressive actions.
These actions reportedly include the firing of water cannons at resupply boats and deliberate ramming incidents near disputed waters. In a move that has heightened geopolitical tensions in the region, the United States has chosen to align itself with the Philippines.
Canada's current condemnation of China's actions in the disputed waters, the Chinese embassy spokesperson expressed sharp criticism. The spokesperson accused Canada of emboldening the Philippines to violate China's sovereignty. According to the spokesperson, Canada's actions have been deemed as a violation of the purposes and principles outlined in the UN Charter, thereby posing a threat to regional peace and stability.
China, which claims nearly the entire South China Sea as its own, reiterated its position that Philippine vessels were encroaching on its national sovereignty. The ongoing dispute has heightened concerns about the potential for further escalation and its impact on regional stability, according to Inquirer.
Global Watch on South China Sea Amid Diplomatic Tensions
As diplomatic tensions rise, the international community closely watches the developments in the South China Sea, with the involvement of major players such as the United States and Canada. The dispute underscores the complexities of maritime claims in the region and the broader geopolitical implications for global powers.
In a separate development, Hollywood actor Jason Momoa, known for his role as Aquaman, made headlines for his fashion sense during a recent shopping spree in New York City. The 44-year-old actor showcased a dapper look in a black and white houndstooth jacket, carrying a Louis Vuitton handbag and completing the ensemble with pink-trimmed black slippers and designer shades.
Momoa's fashion statement comes amidst recent criticism for his perceived "rude attitude" on a television show, where he was accused of turning his back on celebrity chef Nigella Lawson. Despite the controversy, Momoa continues to make waves in both the entertainment and fashion worlds, maintaining a high-profile presence in the public eye.
As diplomatic tensions and celebrity controversies unfold, the world watches with interest, navigating the delicate balance between geopolitics and entertainment, Daily Mail reported.
Related Article: Filipino Supply Boat Slips Past Chinese Ships to Resupply Naval Garrison at Second Thomas Shoal
