China has strongly condemned the statements made by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his visit to India. The criticism stems from Marcos’s response to a question in New Delhi, where he indicated that the Philippines would be prepared to support Taiwan in a potential conflict, leading to China’s strong reaction.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that Taiwan is an internal matter for China and that Manila’s statements are viewed as an attempt to exacerbate the situation, which could lead to consequences.
During an interview in New Delhi, Marcos clarified that if a conflict were to arise between the United States and China over Taiwan, the Philippines would be compelled to intervene. He emphasized that it is their duty to protect their physical and geographic territories.
Marcos further stated that China is operating under an expansionist doctrine, including the encirclement of Taiwan and the increased deployment of its vessels in the South China Sea. He views these actions as provocative.
The Philippines, which had not previously acknowledged Taiwan as a sovereign nation, has altered its stance, causing heightened tensions with China. The Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement on Friday, cautioning the Philippines and warning of potential repercussions.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry has also questioned the consistency of the Philippines’ position, criticizing the provocative nature of its statements concerning Taiwan, considering that the Philippines does not recognize Taiwan’s independence.
It should be noted that the United States and several other nations, like the Philippines, do not recognize Taiwan as a separate country. However, the United States does provide weaponry to Taiwan’s acting government.
China has accused Marcos’s remarks of violating international law, saying it would threaten regional peace, stability, and the fundamental interests of the people.
China and the Philippines are involved in disputes over the South China Sea, including the Scarborough Shoal and other surrounding areas. China took control of the Scarborough Shoal in 2012. In 2016, an international tribunal ruled against China’s claim to the shoal, but China has refused to recognize the ruling.
The international court also stated that China has occupied multiple disputed areas in the South China Sea to which it has no legal claim. In 2024, tensions between the Philippines and China increased when Beijing deployed its naval fleet in the South China Sea.
