A Chinese defense ministry spokesman Yang Yujun has said that he's astonished by the remarks by U.S. Pacific Commander, Harry Harris, on the South China Sea. Yang says the remarks lack common sense.
Admiral Harris said in a speech Wednesday that the U.S. will continue to challenge China's position on the South China Sea and that he personally believes that the islands do not belong to China. Yang refuted the assertion, saying there is legal and historical basis on China's sovereignty.
As for how to resolve disputes, Yang said negotiations with "countries directly related" is China's consistent stance, and China does not need others to intervene in the issues with ignorant words. He also said Harris needs to learn more carefully the history of the South China Sea before giving his irresponsible personal view.
