China’s Foreign Ministry has emphasized its claim over Sandy Cay, part of the Spratly Islands, stating that the reef is uninhabited and that China is working to protect its territorial rights in the area. China further criticized the Philippines for what it calls “illegal” landings and other provocations in the region.
However, the Philippines rejected claims that China had seized Sandy Cay. Philippine officials confirmed that after an on-site inspection, no Chinese presence was found on the disputed sandbars.
Tensions between the two nations remain high, with both accusing each other of maritime control violations, espionage, and disinformation. These tensions come ahead of the Philippines’ mid-term elections.
The disputed Sandy Cay lies close to Thitu Island, which is a significant Philippine-held position in the Spratly Islands. Recently, China’s coast guard was reported to have landed at Sandy Cay, though it did not claim occupation. This event has raised further concerns, as the Philippines alleges that China’s actions violate a 2002 agreement that prohibits the occupation of uninhabited features in the region.
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