China does not accept nor recognize so-called award on South China Sea arbitration: spokesperson

(ECNS) -- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbing on Wednesday claimed that the so-called award on the South China Sea arbitration, which is illegal and void, violates the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and general international law.

"China does not accept or recognize it, and will never accept any claim or action based on the award," said Wang, adding that China’s position on this issue is consistent, clear and firm.

Wang's remarks came after Philippine Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo issued a statement on the seventh anniversary of the so-called award on the South China Sea arbitration, saying that the award is now part of international law, and the Philippines welcomes the growing number of partners that have expressed support for the award, on Wednesday.

"China’s sovereignty and rights and interests in the South China Sea were established in the long course of history, and are solidly grounded in history and the law. This shall under no circumstances be affected by illegal awards," Wang said.

He pointed out that the illegal award of the so-called South China Sea arbitration has been questioned widely by the international community.

Many internationally authoritative law experts, scholars, and visionary people in the Philippines have publicly noted that the award is illegal and wrong, he said.

"China’s position of not accepting or recognizing the award has won the support and understanding of more than 100 countries," said Wang.

China and ASEAN countries are fully implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in an effective way and actively advancing consultations on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC).  

Wang noted that "All parties have agreed to handle the South China Sea issue by following the dual-track approach, namely, maritime disputes should be handled properly by countries directly concerned through dialogue and consultation and peace and stability in the South China Sea should be jointly safeguarded by China and ASEAN countries."

"We urge relevant parties to continue working with China to properly handle and manage maritime differences through dialogue and consultation, and work with regional countries to uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea," said Wang.