The Embassy of France to the Philippines has “resolutely opposed” the recent action made by the China Coast Guard (CCG) against Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in the disputed West Philippine Sea (WPS).

It issued the statement after two CCG vessels carried out “dangerous maneuvers” that almost led to a collision with two PCG ships near Ayungin Shoal in WPS last July 5.

“We are resolutely opposed to any use of force or threat to do so,” the Embassy of France underscored in a statement posted on Saturday, July 8.

The Embassy urged China to show respect for international law and resolve the dispute through a proper dialogue.

“We recall, in this regard, the Arbitration award rendered under UNCLOS on the 12th of July 2016,” it said.

Few days after the incident, the PCG spotted the presence of at least 48 Chinese maritime Militias in the Iroquois Reef and three CCG vessels in Tabina Shoal.

According to the Coast Guard, the number of vessels went up from 12 observed in February.