G7 calls out China over intimidation

'No legal basis for expansive maritime claims in SCS'

- MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

Seven of the world's most powerful democracies comprising the Group of Seven (G7) have issued a joint communiqué calling on China to stop its militarization of the South China Sea (SCS) and denouncing its use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons against Philippine vessels.

The issuance of the communiqué dated April 19 came after their Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in Capri, Italy. The G7 includes Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. The European Union (EU) is a "non-enumerated" member.

In its communiqué, the G7 also said China's vast maritime claims in the SCS have no legal leg to stand on.

"There is no legal basis for China's expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose China's militarization, coercive and intimidation activities in the South China Sea," the G7 said in the communiqué.