The United States has reiterated its commitment to the security of the Philippines in the face of China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea. This reassurance came after a meeting between the national security advisors of both countries, as reported by the White House on Thursday.
During the Wednesday discussions, US national security advisor Jake Sullivan and his Philippine counterpart, Eduardo Año, expressed shared concerns regarding China’s escalating and dangerous activities near Second Thomas Shoal. This shoal, located in the South China Sea, is a focal point of territorial disputes involving China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
The South China Sea has long been a potential flashpoint for conflict, potentially drawing the US into a confrontation with China if escalating maritime tensions lead to armed conflict. Washington has repeatedly emphasized its treaty obligation to defend the Philippines, its oldest treaty ally in Asia, against any attack, including those occurring in the South China Sea.
It is worth noting that Indonesian forces have also engaged in confrontations with Chinese fishing boats in the past, opening fire in waters near the Natuna islands, located on the fringes of the South China Sea.
