Dozens of countries have expressed support for China's stance on the South China Sea dispute, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said on Tuesday.
Hua at a regular news briefing rejected reports that only eight countries back China on the issue, saying, "I knew some Western media sometimes call black white but I didn't expect they would have problems with numbers."
More and more countries are showing China their support after they have a better understanding of the issue and the nature of the arbitration, Hua said, noting Zambia, Cameroon, Ethiopia and Malawi have recently joined the list.
China and Serbia stressed in a joint statement Saturday that the South China Sea dispute should be settled by parties directly concerned through friendly consultations and negotiations, Hua said.
Those directly involved should abide by bilateral agreements and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) while seeking a peaceful solution, she said.
Hua also voiced appreciation and gratitude for Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen's remarks on the issue.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony, the prime minister said that the tribunal's upcoming decision is "politically motivated" and Cambodia will not support the decision.
Hua reiterated that China will not accept nor participate in the arbitration unilaterally launched by the Philippines.
No one should demand China accept any result from an illegal and unfair arbitration. China's stance helps safeguard the dignity and authority of international law, Hua noted.
She said China, with regard to territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, will not accept any plan imposed on it.
China will continue to solve disputes with countries directly involved on the basis of respecting historical facts and in accordance with international law, Hua said.
