中国强烈敦促G7停止发表不负责任的言论

Beijing has criticized the G7 over comments insinuating China is at fault over tensions in the East and South China seas. In a media briefing, foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said the remarks fall far short of the facts and international justice.

“China is committed to maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight in the East and South China seas. For long, no navigation or overflight that abides by international law has been affected. If there is any behavior threatening navigational freedom in these waters, China will be the first to come out against it,” Hong said.

“As a sovereign state, China is ready to respond to any behavior infringing on its sovereign rights and territorial integrity. The international community have fair opinions on the rights and wrongs of the issues over the East and South China seas. The G7 remarks fall far short of the facts and international justice. China urges the Group of Seven to respect the facts, get rid of the prejudice, stop giving irresponsible remarks, and do things that are conducive to solve the problems and improve regional peace and stability.”

Hong also said China's land reclamation around the islands and reefs of the Nansha Islands falls within its sovereignty and no foreign countries should intervene. He said construction on these islands is mainly for civilian purposes, which will enable China to better fulfill its international obligations, such as maritime search, rescue and navigation, while their military function is defensive in nature.