The United States has criticized China for its “dangerous and aggressive actions” towards Philippine navy personnel at the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott called on Beijing to halt what was described as destabilizing behavior in the region. This incident is part of a broader pattern of Chinese provocations against Philippine maritime operations, according to the US.
The US expressed support for its long-standing treaty ally, the Philippines, in the face of these actions. The State Department emphasized that China’s actions undermine regional peace and stability, contrary to its commitments to peaceful dispute resolution. The US also reiterated its support for the 2016 international arbitration ruling on the South China Sea dispute, which invalidated China’s expansive maritime claims.
Washington pledged to continue collaborating with regional allies and partners to maintain security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The US affirmed its commitment to upholding a free and open Indo-Pacific, standing alongside its allies in defense of these principles.
For India, developments in the South China Sea hold strategic importance due to the significant volume of Indian trade passing through the broader Indo-Pacific sea lanes. India advocates for freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce, and the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes in line with international law.
