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Q: Yeah, thanks so much. My question is about the South China Sea. Recently, we have seen the Chinese dangerous options towards Philippines vessels, but recently, Chinese government argued that there was a temporary special agreement with the former Philippine President Duterte in 2016 and – about the restricted access by Philippine vessels, and China accused the Philippines side of the recent tensions. So can I ask for your comment on this Chinese claim?
MS. SINGH: Are you talking about, like, the firing of water cannons, things like that towards Philippine vessels?
Q: Yes, and China claims that there was a hidden agreement with the Philippines side.
MS. SINGH: I’m not exactly clear, maybe not understanding about an agreement that you’re referring to, but of course we continue to monitor what’s happening in the South China Sea, we continue to be alarmed when these incidents happen, whether it be with Philippine vessels or other vessels. We want to be able to see the – you know, the – the freedom of navigation to be upheld. So of course we’re going to continue to monitor what’s happening there with our partners and allies.
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Source: U.S. Department of Defense
Author: Sabrina Singh, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary
Format: Press Briefing
China Policy Research 