ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A senior Chinese military official declared that China would “crush” any foreign intrusion into its territory, including in the South China Sea. The statement came during a defense forum in Beijing.
The remark reflects ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing over China’s assertive stance in contested maritime areas, particularly the South China Sea. In recent months, there have been several high-profile clashes between Chinese vessels and Philippine ships in these waters. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, despite an international court ruling declaring its claims without legal basis.
Lieutenant General He Lei of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, speaking to a small group of journalists including AFP at the Xiangshan Forum, expressed hopes for peace in the South China Sea. However, he warned that if the United States or its allies provoke conflict, China would respond decisively.
He emphasized, “We in the Chinese People’s Liberation Army will resolutely crush any foreign hostile encroachment on China’s territorial, sovereign, and maritime rights with firm determination and strong capability.”
Earlier in the week, China and the Philippines engaged in what they described as “candid” discussions regarding the South China Sea, particularly focusing on a disputed reef that has been a recent flashpoint in their bilateral relations.