China Urges EU to Be Fair Amid South China Sea Tensions

China has called for the European Union to take an 'objective and fair' stance on issues in the South China Sea, following comments from the EU on a recent maritime incident. The collision involved Chinese and Philippine coastguard vessels, escalating tensions in the disputed waters.

China has called on the European Union to adopt an 'objective and fair' perspective on matters related to the South China Sea, following remarks made by the EU concerning a weekend incident.

The Chinese mission to the EU expressed its strong dissatisfaction with the bloc's 'accusations,' stating that the EU has no standing to intervene in these issues. It criticized the EU's repetitive emphasis on freedom of navigation, arguing it undermines its own interests and international credibility.

The incident, a collision near the Sabina Shoal, marked the fifth maritime confrontation between China and the Philippines within a month. The European Union condemned what it termed as 'dangerous actions' by Chinese coastguard vessels, which it said endangered lives and violated international navigation rights. The EU has a significant interest in peace and security in Asia, given that a substantial portion of its foreign trade passes through the South China Sea.

(With inputs from agencies.)