China and the Philippines Reach Deal to End South China Sea Confrontations

High-Level Meeting Yields Agreement on Disputed Shoal

After a tense confrontation in the disputed South China Sea, China and the Philippines have reached an arrangement to prevent future confrontations. The agreement, announced on Tuesday, August 13, 2023, follows a crucial meeting between the two countries.

Key Points of the Agreement:

• Both sides agreed to avoid confrontations during resupply missions to troops stationed at the disputed shoal.
• The agreement does not resolve the underlying territorial dispute between the two countries.
• The deal is seen as a step towards easing tensions in the region.

Philippines Pushes Back Against China's Territorial Claims

In recent years, the Philippines has become increasingly assertive in pushing back against China's expansive territorial claims in the South China Sea. The dispute, which involves several other countries in the region, has been a source of tension for decades.

The latest confrontation occurred in July 2023, when Chinese coast guard vessels blocked a Philippine supply ship from delivering food and supplies to troops stationed on the Second Thomas Shoal.

US President Biden Warns China

In a statement following the confrontation, US President Joe Biden warned China that the United States would defend the Philippines if it came under attack in the disputed waters. The statement marked a significant shift in US policy toward the South China Sea.

Expert Opinion

"This is a welcome sign that both sides are willing to take steps to reduce tensions in the South China Sea," said Carl Thayer, a Southeast Asia expert at the Australian Defence Force Academy. "However, it remains to be seen whether this agreement will hold up in the long term."

Additional Reading:

• China and Philippines Reach Deal to Avoid Confrontations in South China Sea
• US Warns China After South China Sea Confrontation
• Philippines Pushes Back Against China in South China Sea