China: We respect nations' maritime rights, freedom
MANILA, Philippines — Despite its perceived aggression and bullying in the West Philippine Sea, China said it respects countries' maritime rights and claimed that it advocates peaceful resolution of territorial disputes.
In a press conference, China Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said the Chinese government upholds an independent foreign policy of peace and abides by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
"China attaches great importance to the development of marine cause, takes an active part in international maritime affairs and stands for the establishment and maintenance of a harmonious maritime order," Hua sad.
"A harmonious maritime order means that we should respect not only the sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction of all the littoral states, but also every country's right and freedom for the lawful and peaceful use of the sea," she added.
Hua, whose country has been sued by the Philippines over its activities in the South China Sea, said all countries must uphold UNCLOS and exercise their rights and interests in accordance with international law.
"China firmly safeguards and promotes the rule of international maritime law and the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes," Hua said.
Without mentioning the Philippines' arbitration case against China, Hua said the Asian giant respects the lawful rights of all countries to independently choose peaceful means to resolve disputes.
China has said that it will not join the arbitration efforts initiated by the Philippines, saying it has "indisputable sovereignty" over virtually the entire South China Sea. Hua maintained China's position that bilateral talks should resolve territorial disputes.
"The most effective and widely accepted approach for the peaceful settlement of maritime disputes is negotiation and consultation between countries directly concerned based on the respect for historical facts and international law. There are plenty of successful experience on that," Hua said.
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