UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 5 (Xinhua) --Geng Shuang, China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, delivered a speech under the agenda item of "Oceans and the Law of the Sea" at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly on the 5th, solemnly responding to the erroneous remarks made by relevant countries on issues related to the South China Sea.
Geng Shuang said: Representatives of certain countries mentioned the South China Sea issue in their speeches. The UN General Assembly is not the right place to discuss the South China Sea issue, but China must make a solemn response to the erroneous remarks.
Geng Shuang pointed out that China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea were formed in the course of a long history, upheld by successive Chinese leaders, and in line with international law, including the UN Charter and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. China respects the freedom of navigation enjoyed by all countries in the South China Sea in accordance with international law, but firmly opposes any country undermining China's sovereignty and security interests in the name of such a thing.
Geng Shuang stressed that the South China Sea arbitration case was unilaterally initiated by the Philippines, and the arbitral tribunal exceeded its jurisdiction and arbitrarily adjudicated the case. China does not accept or participate in the arbitration, does not accept or recognize the so-called award, and does not accept any claims or actions based on the award. To deal with the South China Sea issue, negotiation and consultation are a realistic and effective way.
Geng Shuang said: Ren'ai Jiao has always been part of China's Nansha Islands. China firmly opposes the recent infringement and provocation by the Philippines, takes necessary measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty, and is committed to properly handling issues through dialogue and consultation.
Geng Shuang said that in recent years, China and ASEAN countries have actively promoted the consultation on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea and have made phased progress. China will work with ASEAN countries, including the Philippines, to strengthen dialogue, eliminate interference, continue to fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, promote the early conclusion of the Code, and jointly maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.
*Xinhua.
Edited by Xie Yongli.
Process Editor: Ma Xiaoshuang.