China: We respect freedom of navigation

MANILA, Philippines — Beijing on Tuesday claimed that it respects freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea following the United States' operation within the 12 nautical miles of Subi Reef in the Spratlys.

"In fact, the Chinese side cares more about navigation safety and freedom in the South China Sea than any other countries including some country outside the region," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said in a press conference.

China, however, expressed strong opposition to the US Navy operation, citing that guided missile destroyer USS Lassen illegally entered waters around the Spratlys without permission from the Chinese government.

READ: China warns US Navy after ship sails by Chinese-built island

Lu explained that the US naval vessel threatened China's sovereignty and interests, put the personnel and facilities on the islands and reefs at risk and endangered regional peace and stability.

China reiterated its indisputable sovereignty over the Spratly or Nansha islands and its adjacent waters in the South China Sea.

"Commercial shipping is different from military actions. We stand firmly against the harm caused by any country to China's sovereignty and security interests under the cloak of navigation and over-flight freedom," the Chinese official said.

China reminded the US to honor its commitment of not taking sides in disputes over the South China Sea to avoid further damage between the relationship of the two countries.

"If any countries attempt to disrupt or impede the aforementioned lawful, justified and reasonable actions by the Chinese side by playing tricks, I advise those countries to cast aside the illusion the sooner the better," Lu said.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson added that China may need to "step up and speed up" if relevant parties continue to create tension in the region.

"I would like to point out that the Chinese side is willing to remove differences through peaceful means, but when it has to react, it will decide when and how to react according to its will and need," Lu said.

He refused to comment when asked if the Chinese side will take military actions regarding the issue.

Some analysts deem the US Navy's freedom of navigation operations near Subi Reef as a challenge to the inordinate maritime claims of China in the disputed sea.

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