Beijing has warned Manila not to “stir up trouble” after the Philippine coastguard removed a floating barrier at a disputed reef that was deployed by China to block Filipinos from the traditional fishing ground within their country’s own exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
“China firmly upholds the sovereignty and maritime rights and interests of the Huangyan island,” Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Wang Wenbin said, referring to the shoal by its Chinese name. “We advise the Philippines not to provoke or stir up trouble.”
