The Philippines has passed two new laws solidifying its claim to its maritime territories, including the South China Sea, directly challenging Beijing’s expansive claims. These laws, which impose harsh penalties on violators, signal Manila’s determination to protect its resources and sovereignty, setting the stage for potential conflict with China.
Japan has lodged a strong protest with China after a Chinese naval ship entered Japanese territorial waters near the southern Kuchinoerabu island. This incident follows a recent incursion by a Chinese military aircraft into Japanese airspace, further escalating tensions between the two countries. The Chinese government has yet to respond to the latest incident.
China’s coast guard has issued a stern warning to the Philippines to halt resupply missions to a vessel near a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, citing potential “unforeseen incidents.” The warning follows a series of confrontations and clashes near the atoll, which has become a focal point in the territorial and maritime disputes in the region.
The Philippines has secretly reinforced the Sierra Madre, a grounded warship in the South China Sea, amidst escalating tensions with China over territorial claims. The move comes as China has stepped up its aggression in the region, including ramming Filipino vessels and using water cannons to prevent resupply missions. The incident has sparked international concern and raised fears of a potential conflict.
Armenia and Azerbaijan have taken a step towards normalizing relations after a bitter conflict over territory. The two nations are working towards a peace treaty after Azerbaijan regained control of the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which had been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces since the 1990s. The first border marker has been placed as part of the demarcation process.
