Rubio backs Manila, condemns Beijing’s ‘dangerous’ actions in South China Sea
The US secretary of state opens his term by reaffirming Washington’s commitment to the Philippines and other regional allies
In the phone call on Wednesday, they discussed “issues of mutual concern”, including China’s “dangerous and destabilising actions in the South China Sea”, she said, adding that Rubio conveyed that Beijing’s behaviour “undermines regional peace and stability and is inconsistent with international law”.
Commenting on the phone call, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Thursday that China’s activities in the relevant waters were legitimate, lawful and beyond reproach.
“The US is not a party to the South China Sea issue and has no right to interfere in the maritime issues between China and the Philippines. The military cooperation between the US and Philippines should not undermine China’s sovereignty, maritime rights, and interests in the South China Sea, nor should it be used to support the illegal claims of the Philippines,” Mao said.
The reported comments by the US secretary of state – which mark Rubio’s first direct rebuke of China since taking office on Tuesday – were delivered against a backdrop of rising tensions in the waters between Beijing and Manila, Washington’s oldest ally in Asia.
