In an open debate at the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday, a Chinese envoy accused the United States of posing the biggest threat to peace and stability in the South China Sea.
Accusations at the UN
Geng Shuang, charge d’affaires of China’s permanent mission to the UN, refuted what he called “unreasonable accusations” made by U.S. representative Dorothy Shea regarding maritime security in the region.
“The United States, under the banner of freedom of navigation, has frequently sent its military vessels to the South China Sea to flex its muscles and openly stir up confrontation between regional countries,” Geng said. “The United States itself is the biggest threat to the peace and stability of the South China Sea.”
Commitment to Peaceful Resolution
Geng emphasized China’s commitment to working with concerned countries to address differences through dialogue and consultation, respecting historical facts and international law.
He declared the so-called verdict in the South China Sea Arbitration case as “illegal and invalid,” stating that China does not accept or recognize it.
Regional Stability with ASEAN
Noting that the current situation in the South China Sea remains generally stable, Geng credited joint efforts by China and ASEAN countries. “We have the determination and ability to build the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation,” he affirmed.
Response to Comments on Taiwan
Addressing comments made by the U.S. representative on the Taiwan issue, Geng urged the United States to abide by its commitment to the one-China principle.
He pointed out that the U.S. remarks were “in stark contrast to other colleagues’ statements,” which focused on maintaining maritime security and promoting international cooperation.
Call for Constructive Engagement
“We hope that the United States can join other countries in playing a constructive role in maintaining maritime security,” Geng stated.
He also called on the international community to uphold the concept of a maritime community with a shared future, maintain a just maritime order, jointly safeguard maritime security and stability, and strengthen global ocean governance.
“We will always be a builder of global ocean governance, a promoter of sustainable development of oceans and seas, and a defender of global maritime security and stability,” Geng concluded. China stands ready to work with the international community to promote an ocean order of peace, tranquility, and win-win cooperation.
