A Philippine boat was "rammed" by a Chinese coast guard ship during a resupply mission on December 10, the Philippine coast guard said, in the latest such confrontation in the disputed South China Sea. MANILA, Philippines — Top diplomats of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) expressed concern over escalating tensions in the South China Sea and called on all parties involved to engage in peaceful dialogue. In a statement Saturday, ASEAN foreign ministers said they "closely follow with concern the recent developments in the South China Sea that may undermine peace, security and stability in the region." ASEAN and China have been negotiating over a South China Sea Code of Conduct, but the process has been slow. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, encompassing waters and islands close to its neighbors' shores.

Source: Philippine Star December 31, 2023 21:50 UTC