US Condemns China Over Scarborough Shoal Dispute With Philippines

The United States has condemned China’s actions around the disputed Scarborough Shoal, accusing Beijing of trying to block Filipino fishermen from their traditional fishing grounds. The US State Department also rejected China’s designation of the shoal as a nature reserve, saying it is being used to reinforce territorial claims. Washington said the move threatens stability and supports the Philippines’ right to access the waters. China and the Philippines both claim the area, where recent confrontations have reportedly included Chinese vessels using water cannon against Philippine boats. Although an international arbitration tribunal rejected much of China’s sweeping South China Sea claim, Beijing has refused to accept the ruling. The dispute has wider global importance because the South China Sea is a major trade route. The US has renewed its backing for the Philippines and other allies as tensions in the region rise.

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