Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, May 20 (Xinhua) — Under China’s approval, the Philippines used a civilian vessel to resupply a warship that ran aground illegally in waters near Ren’ai Reef in the South China Sea on May 16, China Coast Guard (CCG) spokesman Liu Dejun said Tuesday.
He noted that the BOC had requested the Philippine vessel to identify it and had been supervising it throughout the process.
Liu Dejun called on the Philippine side to fulfill its obligations and cooperate with China to keep the maritime situation under control.
“The BOC will continue its human rights and law enforcement activities in the Nansha Islands and adjacent waters, including Ren’ai Reef,” he stressed.
In May 1999, the Philippines “grounded” the tank landing ship BRP Sierra Madre /LT-57/ in the area. The Chinese side immediately made a stern representation to the Philippine side, demanding that it immediately tow the ship away. The Philippines repeatedly promised to do so in the near future. However, more than 25 years later, the Philippine warship is still in the same place. -0-