China reaffirms sovereignty over Ren’ai Reef

China has clearly stated that it will never accept the illegal grounding of a Philippine warship on Ren'ai Reef.

Last week, the Philippines deployed marines and supplies on the Chinese reef. Following the move, the country's defense chief said the Philippines could take any action without informing China.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry responded on Monday, saying that the illegal grounding does not constitute legal occupation of the reef. It says China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha islands and surrounding waters, including the Ren'ai Reef. China urges the Philippines to stop any provocative statements and actions, and work toward maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Hua Chunying, Spokeswoman, Chinese Foreign Ministry, said, "The Philippine warship is grounded on China's Ren'ai Reef because of a malfunction. China has repeatedly demanded that the Philippines tow the warship, but the Philippines has used "technical issues" as an excuse not to do so. The Philippines' behavior has violated the declaration on the conduct of parties in the South China Sea. We will never accept the Philippines illegally occupying the Ren'ai Reef, no matter what means they use."