MANILA, Philippines—China doubled down on its claim to own the West Philippine Sea (WPS), demanding that the Philippines “respect” Chinese sovereignty over the area.
The Chinese demand came as the Philippines stepped up patrols in WPS.
Wang Wenbin, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, said the Philippines should “stop actions complicating the situation and escalating disputes.”
“China enjoys sovereignty over Nansha Islands, including Zhongye Island and Zhongsha Islands, including Huangyan Island and their adjacent waters, and exercises jurisdiction in relevant waters,” Wenbin said at a press briefing on Monday (April 27).
“We urge the relevant side to respect China’s sove…
Keep on reading: China doubles down on ownership claim on WPS, tells Philippines to ‘respect’ it