China urges Europe to stop backing 'illegal' South China Sea ruling to avoid harming ties

China has formally urged European nations to cease endorsing the 2016 Hague-based arbitration ruling on the South China Sea, calling it 'illegal' and warning that continued support could damage ties. The move coincides with the 10th anniversary of the landmark case, which invalidated China’s historical claims to disputed territories. Coverage highlights China’s state-backed think tanks releasing reports dismissing the ruling’s legitimacy, while Western analysts assess its long-term geopolitical impact.

Reuters and Nikkei Asia emphasize China’s framing of the ruling as a legal and diplomatic threat, with the Global Times amplifying its narrative through a report authored by Chinese scholars. The Diplomat’s retrospective examines whether the Philippines’ legal victory altered regional dynamics or was overshadowed by subsequent military actions. European responses remain unspecified, though China’s direct appeal marks a shift from prior indirect criticism.

Watch for potential European statements clarifying their stance on the ruling, as well as reactions from ASEAN nations, which have historically avoided direct confrontation with China. The timing—amid broader U.S.-China tensions—suggests this could be a test of European strategic autonomy in Asia. Coverage may also track whether China escalates economic or trade measures against supportive European entities.