China calls on countries outside the region to respect efforts to keep the SCS safe and stable

China to uphold its territorial sovereignty

MANILA – Quoting Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Zhao Lijian, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said China’s sovereignty, rights and interests in the South China Sea “have been formed in the course of a long history, and are in line with international law and practice.”

The statement came in response to the remarks of US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken during his phone conversation with Philippine Foreign Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. Thursday night.

In a statement released this afternoon, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said their government will uphold their territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

“China is also committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes through negotiation and consultation with other countries directly concerned, and to jointly safeguarding peace and stability in the South China Sea with ASEAN countries,” the statement said.

The Embassy expressed optimism “countries outside the region will respect the efforts of China and other regional countries China Sea.” (Melo M. Acuña)