Barry Ward (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to raise an issue that has not received much attention in Ireland, namely, the aggression of China in respect of the international waters around it, specifically the Second Thomas Shoal, which is an area of natural resources within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines. This is not something I am asserting; it has been established by the arbitral tribunal established by the United Nations. When the tribunal was asked about this in 2016, it made it very clear where the Second Thomas Shoal lay in terms of the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines. There is no doubt in international law about where the rights lie.

Yet, in recent weeks we have seen an aggression by China in respect of the Philippine Navy in that area. Only for the restraint and good judgment of the Philippine Navy was a conflict not sparked as a result. We see China's aggression towards Taiwan and how its navy is constantly carrying out what it refers to as exercises in Taiwanese waters.

China has, of course, a right to establish its own national territory. I know the Chinese policy relating to one China is what it believes, but China must also, if it purports to be a member of the international community, behave in a responsible way. It is irresponsible to try to spark a conflict with another country. Whatever about Taiwan, which I believe is a separate country and democratically entitled to self-determination, the Philippines is internationally recognised as such and there is no doubt about that.

China needs to think very carefully about its dealings with its neighbouring countries in terms of its aggression, bullying and the way its military forces are behaving. This House should also make it clear what we believe in that regard. I encourage the House to have a debate on these specific issues and call on the Minister for Foreign Affairs to make Ireland's position clear.