Chinese FM clarifies unshakable position over South China Sea issue

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks to media during the China and Thailand Co-Chairs joint press conference of ASEAN-China Ministerial Meeting at Myanmar International Convention Center (MICC) in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, Aug. 9, 2014. (Xinhua/U Aung)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi clarified on Saturday China's position over South China Sea issue, saying that safeguarding its sovereignty and maritime rights and interests is unshakable.

Wang made the clarification at a press conference after the China-ASEAN (10+1) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Myanmar's capital of Nay Pyi Taw.

In response to some countries' "proposals concerning the South China Sea issue", Wang said China is committed to resolving disputes peacefully through friendly consultations and negotiations.

China will continue to exercise restraint, but will respond to provocations unequivocally and resolutely at the same time, he maintained.

He is confident that China and ASEAN have full capability and wisdom to jointly uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Wang stated China's willingness to listen to well-intentioned suggestions from all parties on the South China Sea issue - suggestions that are objective, impartial and constructive, rather than those that create new trouble or dissension, or even serve ulterior purposes.

He pointed out that suggestions designed to avoid further complication and escalation of the situation are somewhat unnecessary, as the Declaration on the Code of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) already contains clear provisions in this regard.

Suggestions aimed at "setting up a separate kitchen" and going a different way will inevitably interfere with implementation of the DOC and consultations on a COC, and therefore undermine the common interests of China and ASEAN countries, he said.

Suggestions leading to double standards are rather unfair and will not be accepted, he added.