Kathmandu— A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense has strongly refuted claims made by the Philippines and Australia concerning recent actions taken by the China Coast Guard (CCG) near Ren’ai Jiao, a reef in the South China Sea. Chen Xi stated that China took “necessary countermeasures” following what it described as deliberate provocations and attacks by the Philippine side on Chinese personnel at the location. The statement comes after a joint expression of concern from Philippine and Australian defense ministers regarding CCG activities.

Philippine-Australian Concerns

The recent Philippine-Australian joint statement expressed “serious concern” over actions taken by the China Coast Guard at Ren’ai Jiao, prompting the response from Beijing. The specifics of those concerns were not detailed in the Chinese spokesperson's remarks, but appear to relate to CCG operations near a grounded Philippine vessel.

China’s Justification

Chen Xi defended the CCG’s actions as “professional, restrained and beyond reproach,” asserting they were taken in response to provocations from the Philippines. He stated that the CCG had already released a statement and evidence supporting its account of events at Ren'ai Jiao. Chen emphasized that China views Ren’ai Jiao as an inherent part of its territory – specifically, Nansha Qundao – and that Philippine claims do not alter this fact.

Demand for Vessel Removal

The Chinese spokesperson directly called on the Philippines to remove the BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57), a grounded warship at Ren’ai Jiao. China considers the vessel illegally stationed in the area and has repeatedly demanded its removal, viewing it as an encroachment on its sovereign territory.

China affirmed its commitment to continue rights-protection and law enforcement activities in the region to safeguard its sovereignty and maritime interests, while urging other nations to refrain from actions that could escalate tensions.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.