Britain warns China over South China Sea

The UK has joined the U.S. in issuing a stern warning to China regarding its increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea, particularly targeting Philippine vessels.

In a joint statement following the U.S.-UK Strategic Dialogue, the two nations condemned China’s actions, reaffirming their commitment to upholding international law.

“We stand united against any attempts to destabilise the region,” British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said. Both countries emphasised “the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.”

During the talks held in London, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Lammy reiterated the shared U.S.-UK commitment to “upholding the law of the sea” as outlined by the UN Convention.

They voiced serious concerns about China’s “destabilising actions in the South China Sea” and reaffirmed their collective goal to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. Both leaders condemned “unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion,” sending a strong message to China about the consequences of its aggressive behaviour.

Beyond addressing China, the dialogue covered other global security issues. Both nations reaffirmed their “unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty,” discussing further military and financial aid while condemning recent Russian airstrikes.

The U.S. and UK also expressed concerns about Iran’s military support for Russia, pledging to impose “new and significant measures” in response. In the Indo-Pacific, the two countries committed to deepening their cooperation with partners such as Australia, exemplified by the AUKUS agreement, to bolster security and defence capabilities across the region.

The joint statement also touched on wider global security concerns, particularly in Europe. Both the U.S. and UK reaffirmed their “enduring support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity,” pledging further military and financial assistance.

The dialogue addressed ways to “mobilise resources for Ukraine and restrict Russian revenues,” condemning Russia’s recent airstrikes on civilians. They also highlighted concerns about Iran’s military support to Russia, confirming “coordinated action” against both nations and denouncing the transfer of ballistic missiles from Iran to Russia.

Additionally, the U.S. and UK spoke of the importance of “strengthening democratic resilience globally,” particularly through anti-corruption measures. The two nations reaffirmed their shared goal of combating “foreign information manipulation and interference,” particularly by Russia, and pledged to support Ukraine in its efforts to counter Kremlin disinformation.

Both nations also highlighted their ongoing efforts to drive economic growth through clean energy initiatives and committed to cooperating on climate leadership ahead of COP29.