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China says no clinical, factual basis for Philippines' damage claims at Sabina Shoal

China launched on Friday its initially survey report of the South China Sea's contested Sabina Shoal, stating there was no clinical or factual basis for reef damage claims made by the Philippines.

In the report by the natural deposit ministry carried out from May to July, it discovered that crucial environment index values in the reef area were within the suitable development variety of the coral reef system.

When it comes to the claim created by the Philippines that China's. synthetic accumulation of coral particles at Xianbin Reef has. triggered a great deal of coral bleaching and death in the. area, there is no clinical or accurate basis, the report. stated.

Xianbin Reef, also referred to as Sabina Shoal, remains in contested. waters of the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands, which. China calls the Nansha Islands.

China declares sovereignty over most of the South China Sea. Both countries have actually had clashes over competing claims at numerous. atolls in the sea, where $3 trillion worth of trade passes. annually.

The Philippine coast guard has actually accused China of constructing an. synthetic island at Sabina Shoal, while China has actually stated. unlawful beaching by Philippine warships at the Nansha Islands. had seriously harmed the reef environment in the area.

In the report, China said a Philippine coast guard ship that. has illegally remained at the shoal has had a negative influence on. the surrounding natural environment.

Impacted by waves and currents, anchors and anchor chains. will trigger constant damage to the surrounding reefs, and (the. Philippines) have likewise sent out little boats to run on the. surrounding reefs many times, stated a senior engineer for. China's Ministry of Natural Resources.

On Sunday, near the Sabina Shoal, the Philippine South China. Sea task force said Chinese vessels rammed and utilized water. cannons versus a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries ship. transporting food, fuel and medical products for Filipino. fishermen.

(source: Reuters)