MANILA, Philippines — There is no need to "over-read" a new official map showing disputed South China Sea isles and reefs within China's sovereignty as they were published for public service, Beijing said Wednesday.
In a press conference, China Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunyung said that the newly released map is only one among many.
The map depicts the hotly contested waterway using the same scale as the rest of the mainland. It is also the first large format full vertical version which shows the mainland and its extensive claims over the South China Sea using its "nine-dash line."
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"We have seen relevant report. China's publishing houses in some regions published various kinds of Chinese maps with the purpose of serving the public, and there is no need to over-read it," Hua said.
"Chinese government's position on the South China Sea is consistent, clear and free of any change," she added.
The Philippines objected to the new maps, but said that they do not legitimize China's "ambitious expansionism" over Philippine-claimed waters.
Read: Philippines: China's 'ambitious expansionism' in new map
"We should also take note that no other country recognizes China's previously nine-dash line claim so publishing a new map does not make the territories that they claim," said Charles Jose, Foreign Affairs spokesman, said in an interview with ANC on Wednesday night.