**Sweden Raises Alarm Over Beijing’s Actions in South China Sea**
In a significant diplomatic move, Sweden’s Defense Minister Pål Jonson voiced deep concerns over Beijing’s aggressive maneuvers against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. Speaking at a reception in Manila, Jonson highlighted the threats these actions pose to regional security and stability, emphasizing the importance of investing in security and freedom.
The remarks came after Jonson’s meeting with his Philippine counterpart, Gilberto Teodoro Jr., focusing on expanding defense relations between Sweden and the Philippines. This meeting is crucial as the Philippines looks to Sweden as a potential supplier of supersonic fighter jets, marking a strategic shift in its military focus towards territorial defense.
Jonson’s comments, although not directly naming China, drew significant attention and applause from an audience comprising top Philippine military and security officials, as well as Western and Asian diplomats. He expressed concern over the dangerous maneuvers in the waters, known as the West Philippine Sea in the Philippines, a region claimed almost entirely by Beijing and closely guarded by its coast guard and navy.
The tensions in the region have escalated, with confrontations between Chinese and Philippine government ships over disputed shoals leading to collisions and raising alarms over the past year. Jonson condemned these acts for risking human lives, undermining international law, and threatening global security.
A recent incident highlighted by the Philippine coast guard involved a high-speed boat being blocked and surrounded by Chinese vessels, even as it carried out a humanitarian mission to evacuate a sick sailor. Despite informing the Chinese coast guard of the mission’s nature, the Philippine vessel faced dangerous maneuvers and intentional ramming.
Chinese officials have yet to respond to Jonson’s remarks and the Philippine coast guard’s report. In the past, China has accused the Philippines of instigating hostilities by entering what it claims as its territories.
Jonson’s speech underscored the need for peace through strength and called for restraint and full respect for international law in the South China Sea. He reiterated Sweden’s support for peaceful resolution of differences and tension reduction in the region, aligning with the European Union’s stance and emphasizing the importance of adhering to international regulations to protect civilians at sea.
This diplomatic stance by Sweden marks a significant moment in the ongoing disputes in the South China Sea, highlighting the international community’s concern over Beijing’s actions and the broader implications for regional and global security.