August 5

Two Philippine vessels, without authorization, intruded into the waters adjacent to Ren'ai Jiao of China's Nansha Qundao in an attempt to deliver construction and reinforcement materials to the warship illegally grounded there. The China Coast Guard lawfully restrained them and implemented warning enforcement measures in accordance with the law. The on-site operations were professional, restrained, and beyond reproach.

October 9

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, in response to a question on the Ren'ai Jiao dispute, explicitly pointed out that the Philippines' claim that Ren'ai Jiao falls within its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf based on the "illegal, null and void" South China Sea Arbitration Award is completely without legal basis. The spokesperson reiterated that Ren'ai Jiao is part of China's Nansha Qundao, and China has indisputable sovereignty over it.

Overall Situation for the Year

In 2023, China and ASEAN countries set the goal of striving to conclude the COC by 2026. Meanwhile, the U.S. frequently invoked the illegal award to encourage and support the Philippines in carrying out infringing and provocative actions at Ren'ai Jiao and other locations, repeatedly endorsing and backing the Philippine side.