Quad Foreign Ministers Strongly Object to Aggression in South China Sea

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) stated that the Quad Foreign Ministers expressed strong objection to the dangerous and provocative actions in the South China Sea. The international community emphasizes the need to follow international laws.

The Quad Foreign Ministers, consisting of the United States, Australia, India, and Japan, opposed unilateral actions that aim to alter the status quo in the East China Sea and South China Sea. The DFA welcomed this joint statement.

While not directly naming China, the Philippines has lodged diplomatic protests against Beijing's aggressive actions in the region. The Quad Foreign Ministers highlighted the ongoing dangerous incidents in the South China Sea that the Philippines faces regularly.

The DFA appreciated the Ministers' support for the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, which is a crucial part of international law. The award invalidated China's nine-dash line claim and has been endorsed by legal bodies like the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea and the International Court of Justice.

The Quad Foreign Ministers also condemned actions like the unsafe use of water cannons in the South China Sea, emphasizing the importance of upholding freedom of navigation and international law. They committed to enhancing security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

The DFA reiterated the Philippines' commitment to upholding the rules-based order governed by international law, particularly UNCLOS. Effective diplomacy and managing differences are prioritized to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

According to the source: Manila Bulletin.