France, Germany Back Philippines’ Claim After Chinese Ship Incursions

An activist holds a prop with the words "defend West Philippine Sea" during a protest outside the Chinese Consulate in Manila's financial district, guarded by Philippine police, on the anniversary of an international arbitral court ruling invalidating Beijing's historical claims over the waters of the South China Sea in Makati City, Philippines, on July 12, 2021. Eloisa Lopez/Reuters

France and Germany have voiced concern over the recent incidents in the South China Sea and affirmed support for a 2016 arbitrary ruling on the sea dispute, which upheld the Philippines’ territorial claims.

The French embassy called for respect for international law and resolving disputes through dialogue after reports of Philippine coast guard ships being “followed” and “harassed” by two Chinese vessels in Ayungin Shoal on June 30.