The group of G7 foreign ministers have reiterated their opposition to China's actions in the South China Sea. They expressed grave concern over the use of water cannons and actions that could pose a risk to navigation and aviation in the area. They insisted that the 2016 arbitral ruling is binding and must be respected by those involved.
The group further said that there should be no unilateral actions that would change the current situation, especially if mixed with force or coercion. They reiterated the need for peace and stability in the region, including the Taiwan Strait.
Recently, a Philippine vessel was hit by a water cannon and even rammed on October 12. This is one of a series of incidents involving Chinese ships against Philippine vessels.
On the other hand, Beijing rejected the statement and considered it interference. According to a spokesperson for China's foreign ministry, the events were misrepresented and said that the situation in the seas in question remained "stable."
China insists that the Taiwan issue is part of its internal affairs. They urged the G7 to stop issuing statements that, according to them, only exacerbate the conflict.
