China Embassy refutes US envoy's claims on WPS incident

The Chinese Embassy in Manila has refuted claims made by the US Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, labeling them as "groundless accusations" regarding the recent actions of a China Coast Guard vessel in the West Philippine Sea.

Ambassador Carlson had condemned China's "unlawful use of water cannons and dangerous maneuvers" which endangered lives near Bajo de Masinloc.

The Chinese embassy asserted that the actions taken were "justified, lawful, professional and restrained" in defense of China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

The embassy stated that the US ambassador "overlooked basic facts" in her condemnation of China's actions.

The embassy further stated that the US and its allies are not parties to the South China Sea issue and have no right to interfere in maritime disputes between China and the Philippines.

It urged these countries to respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, and to stop sowing discord and adding fuel to the fire.