MANILA, Philippines – China’s ambassador to the U.S. says an international tribunal ruling that rejected its expansive claims over the South China Sea will intensify conflict and could lead to confrontation.
Meanshile, a senior White House official for Asia policy stressed the importance of upholding the “rules-based international order” in the South China Sea.
Daniel Kritenbrink said that history shows that a breakdown in order and predictability often leads to “tragic outcomes.”
Kritenbrink called for both parties to accept an international tribunal ruling Monday rejecting China’s extensive claims in the South China Sea.
Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai also accused the Hague-based tribunal of “professional incompetence,” saying it was dealing with a sovereignty dispute, which is beyond its jurisdiction.
The case was brought by the Philippines, a U.S. ally.
U.S. officials say the ruling will narrow the geographical scope of territorial disputes in the South China Sea and could provide an impetus for fresh diplomacy among the claimant nations.
Cui said China always supports negotiations among the concerned parties, but the ruling will undermine the possibility of diplomacy.
