Britain expressed concern over China’s actions in the South China Sea. Britain, via its Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs David Lammy, expressed concern over China’s “dangerous and destabilising activities” in the South China Sea.
“We are concerned by dangerous and destabilising activities by China in the South China Sea,” said Lammy on social media X.
“The UK and world economy depends on these trade routes being safe and secure,” he added.
In a video accompanying his post, Lammy said: “A third of global maritime trade passes through the South China Sea. Growth in the UK and around the world depends on these trade routes being safe and secure.
“That’s why we are concerned about dangerous and destabilising activities by China in this region. The Philippines is at the sharp end of this, facing frequent challenges to freedom of navigation and international law.
“As maritime nations, we are committed to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. By working together, we will enhance our security and prosperity. And maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
David Lammy visited the Philippines on March 8, with the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs mentioning that the £2.8bn trade relationship with the Philippines “is stronger than ever.”
Britain and the Philippines signed a joint framework agreement to enhance cooperation and deepen the PH-UK bilateral relations.
“Secretary Lammy’s visit is envisioned to solidify the Enhanced Partnership between the Philippines and the United Kingdom, which was launched in 2021, through the signing of the Joint Framework of the Enhanced Partnership, and thereby, to further deepen PH-UK bilateral relations,” the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs said before the visit.
“Secretary Lammy will meet with Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo to review cooperation across various pillars of the Enhanced Partnership such as trade and investments, defense, maritime, climate change and environment, and science and technology,” the Department added.
During his one-day official visit to Philippines, Lammy noted: “Together we’re championing economic progress and global stability, creating jobs, growth and opportunities for both our countries.”
