China slams Philippines for 'illegal intrusion', says US using Manila as 'pawn' in South China Sea

China on Wednesday accused the United States of manipulating the Philippines as a “pawn” to provoke tensions in the South China Sea, amid escalating hostilities between the two countries over territorial disputes in the area.

Following allegations that China Coast Guard vessels collided with Philippine boats and deployed water cannons during a resupply mission, Manila summoned a Chinese representative on Tuesday.

China defended its actions, asserting that it had implemented “control measures” against Philippine ships for what it deemed as “illegal intrusion” into waters under its claim. Additionally, China accused a Philippine vessel of deliberately colliding with a Chinese ship.

“China urges the United States not to use the Philippines as a pawn to stir up trouble in the South China Sea,” Reuters quoted foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning as saying when asked about the United States’ condemnation of China’s actions as “provocative”.

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“The Philippines should not let itself be at the mercy of the United States,” she added.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, brushing aside competing claims from a host of Southeast Asian nations and an international arbitration ruling that has declared its stance baseless.

On Wednesday Southeast Asian and Australian leaders warned against actions that “endanger peace” in the South China Sea, following the fresh confrontations between Beijing and the Philippines.

“We encourage all countries to avoid any unilateral actions that endanger peace, security and stability in the region,” read a joint declaration hammered out between ASEAN members and Australia.

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In recent months tensions between Beijing and an increasingly assertive Philippines have reached levels not seen for years.

Tuesday’s collisions came after similar incidents in December.

“China’s resolve to defend its legitimate rights and interests is unwavering, and the Philippines’ rights-infringing and provocative attempts will not succeed,” Mao said on Wednesday.

With inputs from agencies