China Refutes Philippines Claims Of Creating Artificial Island In South China Sea: 'Groundless And Pure Fabrication'

China has denied allegations by the Philippine coastguard of building an artificial island in the disputed Sabina Shoal, South China Sea.

What Happened: Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, dismissed the claims as “groundless and pure fabrication,” South China Morning Post reported on Monday.

Wang accused the Philippines of spreading rumors and discrediting China, urging them to stop making irresponsible remarks and return to resolving disputes through negotiations and consultations.

Jay Tarriela, a spokesperson for the Philippine coastguard, had earlier alleged that recent patrols had effectively halted China’s land reclamation efforts on the coral atoll. He accused China of dumping crushed coral as part of these attempts.

The Philippine government is considering filing a legal case against China over the destruction of coral reefs within its exclusive economic zone, following a series of clashes between Chinese and Philippine ships in the South China Sea, escalating tensions in the region.

China has dismissed these allegations, accusing Manila of trying to create political drama. In 2016, the Philippines won a case against China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea at The Hague, which China disregarded. However, a second lawsuit could potentially damage China’s international image.

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Why It Matters: This incident is the latest in a series of escalating tensions between China and the Philippines over the South China Sea. The Philippines has previously vowed to de-escalate tensions in the South China Sea, rejecting the use of water cannons or any other offensive weapons.

However, the situation intensified when the national security adviser of the Philippines advocated for the expulsion of Chinese diplomats following an alleged leak of a phone conversation with a Filipino admiral.

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