US Supports Philippines Urges China To End Provocative Actions In South China Sea

JAKARTA - The United States supports the Philippines in urging China to end its provocative actions and respect international law in the South China Sea.

According to a statement by the US State Department, quoted by Reuters via Antara,

Friday, June 17th.

The Philippines last week lodged a new diplomatic protest against China's maritime activities within Manila's 200-mile (321 km) exclusive economic zone.

The Philippines has accused China of "illegal fishing" while a Chinese coast guard vessel shadowed a Philippine vessel carrying supplies.

The allegations add to more than 300 complaints filed against Beijing's activities in the South China Sea.

The United States is concerned about the Philippines, the State Department said.

"These actions are part of China's broader provocation tendencies against South China Sea claimants and other countries operating lawfully in the region," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.