China has summoned the Philippine ambassador to lodge solemn representations over two new laws in the Philippines covering maritime zones and archipelago sea lanes, its foreign ministry said on Friday (November 8).
Marcos signs two laws reinforcing Philippine rights over maritime zones
"The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Philippine ambassador to China to lodge solemn representations over the so-called "Maritime Zones Law" and "Archipelago Sea Lanes Law" issued by the Philippines." Beijing's foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said.
“China urges the Philippines to earnestly respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, immediately stop taking any unilateral actions that may lead to the expansion of disputes and complicate the situation, and earnestly maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea. China reserves the right to take necessary measures.” Mao added.
China, which also has sovereignty disputes with the other countries in the region, has in the past enacted domestic laws covering the South China Sea, such as a coast guard law in 2021 that allows it to detain foreigners suspected of trespassing.
he United States on Saturday expressed its support for the passage of the Philippines Maritime Zones Act, saying it clearly defines the country's territorial sea.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inked Republic Act 12064 or the Philippine Maritime Zones Act on Friday in an effort to strengthen the country's entitlement and responsibility within its maritime zones.
"The United States supports the Philippines’ enactment of the Maritime Zones Act," Matthew Miller, US State Department spokesperson said in a statement.
