Germany and France have expressed support for the Philippines after another incident of harassment involving China's Coast Guard against its Filipino counterpart right in the country's waters.
German Ambassador to the Philippines Anke Reiffenstuel said an "aggressive behavior," particularly when Chinese personnel made a dangerous maneuver against the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), "has no place in the South China Sea."
She called for respect toward the rules-based maritime order, with the 2016 Arbitral Ruling pertaining to the Philippines' sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, as the "center."
Reiffenstuel also agreed with the sentiment of US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, who had earlier expressed concern about China's "irresponsible" behavior in the waters.
Meanwhile, France also called for a dialogue between concerned parties to resolve possible disputes.
The French Embassy in Manila said it is concerned about the recent developments and is calling for "for respect for international law and the resolution of disputes through dialogue."
"We are resolutely opposed to any use of force or threat to do so. We recall, in this regard, the Arbitration award rendered under UNCLOS on the 12th of July 2016," it added.
On June 30, the PCG said it was "constantly followed, harassed and obstructed" by the CCG after providing support in the naval operation of the Philippine troops.
The incident happened in the waters off Ayungin Shoal, an area legally and internationally recognized as part of the Philippine territory but is being claimed by China.
Japan and the US—which have close relations with the Philippines—had also expressed concern about the incident.
