Japan says China's actions obstruct freedom of navigation

The foreign ministry of Japan yesterday reiterated its serious concern over increasing tension at the West Philippine Sea (WPS), “repeated actions which obstruct freedom of navigation and increase regional tensions, including recent dangerous actions that resulted in damage to the Filipino vessel and injuries to Filipinos onboard.”

- ARTEMIO DUMLAO

Japan said it opposes any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force as well as any actions that increase tensions in (area),” citing the Joint Vision Statement from the Leaders of Japan, the Philippines and the United States in April 2024.

“Japan is concerned by unlawful maritime claims and steadfastly opposes the dangerous and coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels in the South China Sea.”

The Japan foreign ministry also said they “highly appreciate the government of the Philippines for having consistently complied with the Arbitral Tribunal’s award as to the disputes between the Republic of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) regarding the South China Sea and shown its commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes.”