The Vatican has issued a statement urging the peaceful resolution of conflicts, with a specific focus on the tensions between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea. Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s foreign minister, made the plea during his first visit to Manila in the 75-year history of relations between the Holy See and the Catholic-majority country. Gallagher emphasized the importance of making every effort to peacefully resolve any differences and urged parties in conflict to adhere to international law.
The timing of Gallagher’s visit is noteworthy as talks are currently underway between Manila and Beijing to manage their tensions in the South China Sea. Philippine Foreign Minister Enrique Manalo has expressed optimism that these ongoing discussions will result in confidence-building measures to effectively manage tensions. These talks fall under the bilateral consultation mechanism, which specifically addresses disputes in the South China Sea.
Recent incidents have heightened tensions between China and the Philippines, with both sides accusing each other of aggressive actions in disputed shoals and reefs in the South China Sea. Of particular concern is an incident last month that resulted in a Filipino navy sailor sustaining serious injuries. According to Philippine Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the actions of the Chinese Coast Guard during a routine resupply mission were the most aggressive in recent history. The deliberate, planned, and escalatory maneuvers by the Chinese Coast Guard have raised further concerns about the situation.
Despite the Philippines’ account of the incident, China has disputed these claims, asserting that its coast guard’s actions were lawful and beyond reproach. The Chinese Embassy in Manila has yet to comment on Trinidad’s remarks, further complicating the situation.
The Philippines has been actively involved in sending missions to resupply soldiers stationed on the Second Thomas Shoal, with the aim of reinforcing its sovereignty claims. However, China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea have been a point of contention, as it asserts control over nearly the entire region, including portions claimed by other countries. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled against China’s claims, stating that they had no legal basis.
Given these circumstances, Manila has sought wider international support for its maritime claims and has been advocating for a rules-based order that recognizes international law. This aligns with the Vatican’s call for peaceful conflict resolution and adherence to international law.
In conclusion, the Vatican’s intervention and call for peaceful conflict resolution, particularly in the context of the South China Sea disputes, highlights the need for diplomacy and adherence to international law. It also underscores the significance of respectful dialogue and the pursuit of peaceful solutions to resolve disputes. As tensions continue to simmer in the region, the global community must remain vigilant and advocate for the peaceful and lawful resolution of conflicts.
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