Q: On December 11, the spokesperson of the European External Action Service issued a statement expressing concern about the recent “provocative and dangerous behavior” of Chinese vessels against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. What’s your comment?

A: Recently, Philippine vessels, without permission from the Chinese government, illegally intruded into the waters near China’s islands and reefs in the South China Sea, including the Huangyan Dao and the Ren’ai Jiao, and a Philippine vessel dangerously rammed a Chinese Coast Guard ship. This gravely violated China’s sovereignty and endangered the safety of Chinese ships and personnel. In response, the Chinese Coast Guard took necessary measures against the Philippine ships in accordance with domestic and international law. The measures were professional, restrained, justified and legitimate. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has lodged serious démarche in strong protest to the Philippine side.

The EU’s statement, in disregard of facts, criticizes China’s legitimate law enforcement actions while endorsing the Philippines’ illegal provocations. We firmly oppose this stance and urge the EU to respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, as well as the efforts of countries in the region to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.