Pressure Mounts on China as Three More Asia-Pacific Governments Back Philippines in South China Sea Standoff

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar (left) shakes hands with Philippines’ Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo after a joint press conference at the Sofitel Hotel in Manila on March 26, 2024. JAM STA ROSA / POOL / AFP

Three of the largest, most powerful governments in the Asia-Pacific region weighed in on Tuesday on the deteriorating security situation in the South China Sea, and condemned Beijing for its use of force against Filipino vessels.

South Korea and Australia issued statements from their foreign ministries that expressed concern about China’s behavior during two confrontations earlier this month. The tone of South Korea’s statement followed Japan’s lead on Monday with more veiled criticism, while Australia was very blunt in its accusation that China is engaging in “dangerous maneuvers.”

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by Eric Olander

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