The Philippines has refuted China’s claims over islands in the South China Sea, during weeklong proceedings at an arbitration court in The Hague.
China is boycotting the session, saying disputes over territories in the South China Sea should be settled by the parties concerned.
A government delegation from the Philippines wrapped up its oral arguments at the Permanent Court of Arbitration on Monday.
Its members reportedly said China’s claim that it historically owns the islands is groundless.
They added that some of what China calls islands are actually reefs not subject to exclusive economic rights and other sovereign claims.
The delegates argued that China’s position is in breach of the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea.
The court has asked China to present a written counter-argument by January 1st.
A ruling could be delivered sometime next year.
Source and image: NHK
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