China and Philippines in Tense Standoff Over Sabina Shoal

Diplomatic talks continue as the Philippines calls for a summit of Pacific allies to address escalating tensions in the South China Sea

Chinese and Philippine officials held 'frank and in-depth' discussions on the disputed Sabina Shoal, with China demanding the withdrawal of a Philippine vessel.
The Philippines is convening a summit of 20 Pacific allies on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly to address the rising tensions.
Recent skirmishes, including a collision between Chinese and Philippine coast guard ships, have heightened fears of potential armed conflict.
The Philippine Navy has reported an unprecedented presence of over 200 Chinese maritime vessels in the disputed waters.
China continues to assert its sovereignty over the majority of the South China Sea, through which $3 trillion in trade passes annually.