BEIJING — China issued a warning to Britain on Tuesday, urging it to avoid escalating tensions in the South China Sea, following comments from UK Foreign Minister David Lammy, who criticized Beijing’s actions in the disputed waters.

UK Calls China’s Actions ‘Dangerous and Destabilizing’

In a video partly filmed alongside a vessel belonging to the Philippine Coast Guard, Lammy condemned China’s activities in the region, labeling them as “dangerous and destabilizing.”

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, despite an international ruling rejecting its territorial claims as having no legal basis.

China’s Response to UK’s Statement

When asked about Lammy’s remarks, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responded by urging Britain to respect China’s territorial sovereignty and avoid escalating regional disputes.

“The UK should respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea and refrain from provoking tensions or sowing discord over regional disputes,” Mao said.

She further insisted that:

“The South China Sea is currently one of the safest and freest maritime routes in the world.”

Tensions Continue Between China and the Philippines

Despite China’s claims, Beijing has deployed navy and coast guard vessels in recent months to block Philippine access to crucial reefs and islands, leading to a series of confrontations.

UK-Philippines Strengthen Defense Ties

On Saturday, during a meeting between UK Foreign Minister David Lammy and his Filipino counterpart Enrique Manalo, Britain and the Philippines signed a joint framework to enhance defense and maritime cooperation.

The Philippines has also established similar agreements with the United States, Australia, and Japan, reinforcing its alliances amid ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea.