China coast guard uses water cannons on 2 Philippine vessels as top diplomats meet in Manila

Chinese coast guard ships used water cannons on Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal. This incident occurred for the second consecutive day in the disputed waters. Top diplomats met in Manila for annual foreign minister meetings while these skirmishes unfolded. ASEAN ministers expressed concerns over serious incidents and actions risking safety in the area. Negotiations for a code of conduct to prevent armed confrontation continue this year.