China Warns Philippines to Stop 'Theatrics' After Seoul Defense Dialogue Clash

According to CNBC, China warned the Philippines to stop “theatrics” after Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. rebuked Beijing at the Seoul Defense Dialogue and read a note from the Chinese side during the panel. The message restated China’s rejection of the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling, while Teodoro accused Beijing of “coercion, bullying and aggression” in the South China Sea. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing urges the Philippine side to cut provocations and stop undermining China-Philippines relations and stability in the South China Sea. Teodoro has been sanctioned by Beijing since June, barring him, his wife and child from entering Chinese territory over what China called erroneous remarks against China.