Respect Chinese sovereignty in South China Sea, Beijing warns Washington
- US accused of ‘stirring up trouble’ and disregarding international law
- Freedom of navigation patrols set to increase this year
Beijing has accused Washington of “stirring up trouble” with its planned increase in naval operations in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.
Defence ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang said China resolutely opposed the plan, describing it as a violation of its sovereignty and security, as well as reflecting “disregard for international laws and rules”.
“The Chinese military will take resolute measures to safeguard national sovereignty and security, and to safeguard peace and stability in the region,” Ren said in Beijing on Thursday.
“China has indisputable sovereignty over various islands in the South China Sea and its adjacent waters, and the current situation in the South China Sea is generally stable, thanks to the efforts made by China together with the Asean countries.
“We call on the US side to respect China’s sovereignty and security … and not to stir up trouble in the South China Sea.”