At a recent regular press conference, Chinese spokesperson Mao Ning responded to the Philippines' plan to build permanent civilian structures at Ren'ai Jiao in the South China Sea. This response conveys China's firm position on the issue of sovereignty in the South China Sea and emphasizes China's indisputable sovereignty over the Spratly Islands.
Mao Ning first clarified China's position on the Spratly Islands, emphasizing that this territory has been formed and established over the course of history and is in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter. He once again reiterated that Ren'ai Jiao is part of China's Nansha Islands and has indisputable sovereignty over it. This position is based on a long historical process and is China's firm position under the framework of international law.
In response to the Philippine claim, Mao Ning made it clear that the Philippines' claim to have exclusive economic zone and continental shelf rights to Ren'ai Jiao through the so-called award in the illegal and invalid South China Sea arbitration case has no legal basis. He stressed that this is a violation of the principles of international law and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. Mao Ning expressed regret that the Philippines has repeatedly broken its promises and frequently changed its policy, pointing out that this series of actions has complicated the situation.
Mao Ning further pointed out that the recent announcement by the Philippine military spokesman that the plan to build a permanent structure at Second Thomas Shoal would be a serious violation of China's sovereignty and a violation of international law and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. He saw the plan as another breach of commitments, a change of policy, and a serious move by the Philippine side to undermine the uninhabited and unequipped state of Ren'ai Jiao.
In the face of the Philippine plan, Mao Ning said that China will resolutely respond to any infringement and provocation and firmly safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. This statement conveys China's determination to stand up for its rights and interests in the South China Sea and to resolutely push back against abuses.
The South China Sea has always been the focus of international attention, and the behavior of all parties in the region has a direct bearing on regional stability and peace. China's tough response to the Philippine plan shows that China's determination to safeguard its national interests on the issue of the Spratly Islands is beyond doubt. Countries in the region should jointly abide by international law, resolve differences through dialogue, and jointly maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.
China's response to the South China Sea issue demonstrates China's diplomatic firmness and self-confidence, which is of great significance for protecting territorial sovereignty and national dignity. This issue will continue to be the focus of international attention, and all parties need to work together to resolve differences through dialogue and consultation to maintain regional peace and stability.