Manila: Canada has expressed concern over another unprovoked incident involving Chinese vessels firing water cannons against civilian boats from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the South China Sea. The targeted BFAR vessels were on a routine mission to support traditional Filipino fishing communities operating in the area.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines issued a statement emphasizing that "coercion and intimidation have no place in a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region." The incident involved the Chinese Coast Guard vessel 4203, which reportedly used water cannons on the BRP Datu Matanam Taradapit (MMOV 3006) while it was delivering essential supplies to Filipino fisherfolk on June 20.
Canada has reiterated its support for the rights of coastal states under international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Furthermore, Canada has called for the respect of the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling, which invalidated China's sweeping claims in the South China Sea. The Canadian government's stance highlights the ongoing tensions and the importance of adhering to international maritime laws in maintaining regional stability.
