Recently, the Philippines and Japan launched so-called "Exclusive Economic Zone" and continental shelf "delimitation talks," which constitute a serious infringement on China's sovereignty. However, after China lodged a stern representation, the Philippines not only refused to stop its wrongful actions but also issued provocations against China.
According to a report by Nikkei Asia on Wednesday, Philippine Foreign Minister Lazaro said in an interview that the "delimitation talks" between the Philippines and Japan are crucial to the country’s national defense. She falsely claimed that the issue of "delimitation talks" has nothing to do with China, and that even if China applies greater pressure, the Philippines and Japan should "continue with the negotiations."
Lazaro asserted that the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf are so-called important parts of Philippine "territory," and since Japan is a potential partner for the Philippines in defense cooperation, it is very important to negotiate with Japan. She said: "Defense cooperation with Japan is vital for the Philippines, both at the national level and for regional peace and security."
The report stated that the Philippines and Japan agreed last month to deepen their cooperation, and Japan is considering exporting defense equipment to the Philippines. Lazaro claimed this is part of the "modernization process" and will help safeguard so-called "peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region." "All the equipment is very important, and we need to obtain it as soon as possible to protect the maritime security of this region."
Lazaro falsely claimed that the Philippines-Japan "delimitation talks" have nothing to do with China and are "merely an issue between the Philippines and Japan." She threatened: "Even if China continues to oppose or increases its pressure, we should continue the delimitation negotiations."
In addition, Lazaro attempted to interfere in the Taiwan Strait situation, claiming to be "concerned" about Chinese vessels’ activities in the Strait and said she would try to "persuade China to resolve the issue peacefully."
On May 28, during Philippine President Marcos’s visit to Japan, the Philippines and Japan released a joint statement, announcing the official launch of "delimitation talks" on their exclusive economic zones and continental shelves, with the proposed delimited maritime area located east of Taiwan Island, China.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated at a regular press conference on June 9 that China possesses an exclusive economic zone and continental shelf in the waters east of Taiwan. The Philippines and Japan, bypassing China, have unilaterally initiated so-called maritime delimitation talks, which seriously violate international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and basic norms of international relations, and gravely infringe upon China’s maritime rights and interests. China will never allow this.