South China Sea should be a sea of int’l cooperation
A ferry with more than 340 people onboard sank early on Jan 26 in choppy seas off the southern Philippines, killing at least 18 and leaving 10 still missing.
Photo/CNA
Shortly before that, a Singapore-registered cargo ship en route from the Philippines to China capsized in the waters near Huangyan Dao. China handed over 17 Filipino sailors it rescued from the shipwreck to the Philippines.
The repeated accidents remind us the South China Sea and its surrounding areas should be a sea of cooperation, rather than a marine region of conflicts. China adheres to a people-centered approach in maritime search and rescue operations, fulfilling international obligations, and ensuring the safety of life at sea.
The recent accidents in the South China Sea are unfortunate incidents, and we express our deep condolences for the loss of life. China has taken swift action to rescue those in distress, which reflects the spirit of international humanitarianism and regional cooperation.
The South China Sea is an important maritime transport route, and China will continue to work with other countries to strengthen maritime safety cooperation, improve emergency response capabilities, and jointly uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea.
