China's Defense Ministry on Friday urged the Philippines to immediately halt "risky but futile provocations" in the South China Sea and return to the proper course of resolving disputes through dialogue.
The remarks came after Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro claimed that China's increasing "aggression" in the disputed waters posed the greatest threat to the Southeast Asian country's national security. Teodoro also stated that the Philippines and its security allies would push back any "aggressive attempt" by China and take measures against any efforts to impose an air defense zone or restrict freedom of flight over the South China Sea.
Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for China's Defense Ministry, refuted these comments, asserting that China has indisputable sovereignty over the South China Sea islands and adjacent waters, and holds sovereign rights and jurisdiction over relevant waters.
"We are committed to peace and stability in the region," Zhang said, adding that there has never been an issue with the freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea. However, Zhang noted that the Philippine side has repeatedly infringed on China's sovereignty and made provocative moves, while some countries outside the region have continued to stir tensions.
"Their behaviors undermine tranquility in the South China Sea," Zhang said. "With many options in our toolkit, China stands firm in our resolve to protect our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests."
Zhang urged the Philippines to avoid miscalculating the situation, cease its "risky but futile provocations", and return to the proper path of resolving disputes through dialogue.
