China’s marine research draws concern in Philippines

The Philippine government’s decision to allow China to conduct underwater research off the Philippines’ coast has been met with criticism.

President Rodrigo Duterte gave China the go-ahead this month to carry out marine research activities in the Philippine Sea, China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang told reporters on 16 January.

A Chinese ship will be stationed off the Philippines between January and February to conduct research in collaboration with local scientific institutions, Lu told a press conference. “China commends this decision made by the Philippine side on agreeing to China’s scientific activities and offering facilitation,” he said.