China Snubs G7 Declaration on Sea Row
Reacting to recent declaration of the Group of Seven (G7) major nations' Foreign Ministers on maritime , China said “the situation of this region is generally stable, and relevant cooperation has been moved forward with positive results.”
China has urged relevant countries to do more that are conducive to regional peace and stability.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks when asked to comment on a statement made by foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) on maritime disputes.
"We hope relevant countries can respect the efforts made by countries in the region to maintain the region's peace and stability, and do more that is helpful to regional peace and stability," said Hong Lei.
The question asked in the press conference was: "the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting released a declaration on April 15, expressing concerns over unilateral actions which change the status quo and increase tensions in the East and South China Sea.
It also expresses support for the establishment of functioning regional mechanisms of cooperation on enhanced maritime security, underscoring the positive role played by the ASEAN-China talks on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea in adopting confidence-building measures. Does China have any comment on this?"
Spokesperson Hong Lei said: "China holds a consistent and clear position on maritime issues in the neighborhood. We maintain that the relevant disputes should be resolved through negotiation and consultation by countries directly concerned, and stay committed to safeguarding regional peace and stability and pushing for mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation along with countries concerned. The situation of this region is generally stable, and relevant cooperation has been moved forward with positive results. It is hoped that relevant countries would fully respect the efforts by regional countries to safeguard regional peace and stability, and do more things that contribute to regional peace and stability."
Chinese Ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai earlier said that China's buildup of its capabilities in the South China Sea aims to serve the interests of maintaining security, stability and freedom of navigation there.
"We always hope for peace and stability on the South China Sea as it's just at the doorsteps of China. Nobody likes chaos at their doorsteps. We are unable to interfere with what the others do, but we oppose anyone who endeavors to make trouble on the South China Sea."
