Why is China fuming over India-Philippines naval drill?

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China expresses discontent over recent naval exercises conducted by India and the Philippines in the disputed South China Sea. The Chinese military emphasizes that defence cooperation between nations should not jeopardize the interests of third countries. Senior Colonel Wu Qian, the spokesperson for China’s defence ministry, acknowledges France’s upcoming naval and air drills with the Philippine Navy. Tensions rise as China becomes uneasy about military collaboration between the Philippines and other nations, particularly amid face-offs between Chinese coastguard ships and Philippine navy vessels in the contested South China Sea. Both Beijing and Manila assert control over parts of the disputed region, contributing to longstanding territorial disputes. The Philippines Navy alleges that Chinese ships used water cannons to attack its vessels, adding to the heightened tensions in the area. China claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, while neighbouring countries, including the Philippines, have counterclaims over the territory.