China Coast Guard Expels Philippine Vessels from Disputed Waters, Reaffirming Sovereignty Claims

The China Coast Guard (CCG) has expelled two Philippine vessels for unlawfully intruding into waters near Tiexian Jiao of China's Nansha Qundao. The vessels, which attempted to illegally land on the reef and collect sand samples on Friday, have been warned and driven away, according to CCG spokesperson Liu Dejun on Saturday.

Liu reiterated that China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Qundao and its surrounding waters, including Tiexian Jiao. He said the CCG will continue its law enforcement activities in waters under Chinese jurisdiction, in accordance with the law, to firmly safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

The incident occurred on Friday when the two Philippine vessels were spotted by the CCG near Tiexian Jiao. The vessels were attempting to land on the reef and collect sand samples when they were intercepted by the CCG. The CCG warned the vessels to leave the area and they eventually complied.

The CCG's actions are in line with China's position on the South China Sea. China claims sovereignty over the entire South China Sea, including the Nansha Qundao, which is also claimed by the Philippines and other countries. China has been increasingly assertive in its claims in recent years, building artificial islands and deploying military assets in the region.

The Philippines has protested China's actions, saying that they violate international law. The United States has also expressed concern about China's activities in the South China Sea, saying that they could destabilize the region.

The incident is the latest in a series of tensions between China and the Philippines over the South China Sea. The two countries have been engaged in a diplomatic dispute over the issue for several years. The dispute has led to several incidents, including the 2012 Scarborough Shoal standoff.

The South China Sea is a strategically important waterway that is home to rich fishing grounds and potential oil and gas reserves. The dispute over the South China Sea is likely to continue for many years to come.