Beijing: Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong asserted that the United States is the primary security threat in the South China Sea, with its military presence fueling an “arms race whirlpool”, according to remarks published on Sunday.
Recent maritime confrontations between China and the Philippines, a US treaty ally, have elevated tensions in the strategically significant South China Sea, potentially igniting friction between Washington and Beijing.
Sun, speaking after a high-level meeting on East Asian cooperation in Laos, emphasized, “At present, the biggest security challenge in the South China Sea comes from outside the region.” He accused US-led forces of escalating tensions by promoting military deployments, exacerbating maritime disputes, and undermining the legitimate rights of coastal nations.
The deployment of medium-range missile systems by the United States in the region, Sun warned, is intensifying an arms race, casting a shadow of geopolitical conflict over the entire Asia Pacific region.
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China reaffirmed its commitment to resolving disputes in the South China Sea through dialogue. However, in April, the Philippines vowed to assert its sovereign rights in the area during a meeting with US allies, accusing China of escalating harassment.
China asserts extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea, a vital artery for over $3 trillion in annual shipping commerce. It has deployed numerous coast guard vessels, patrolling up to 1,000 km from its mainland to enforce what it deems as its jurisdiction.
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Tensions between the Philippines and China have persisted, particularly near disputed features within Manila’s exclusive economic zone. China accuses the Philippines of encroachment, while Manila and its allies condemn what they perceive as Beijing’s aggression.
The United States has reiterated its support for Manila, standing by its ally in the South China Sea disputes.
