China rejects PH House resolution condemning actions in WPS

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin. REUTERS

MANILA, Philippines — The Chinese Foreign Ministry has rebuffed the resolution of the Philippine House of the Representatives to condemn China’s illegal actions in the West Philippine Sea.

According to Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Friday, China firmly rejected the resolution which “groundlessly criticized, misrepresented and smeared China.”

“The resolution adopted by the House of Representatives of the Philippines groundlessly criticized, misrepresented and smeared China. We firmly reject it,” he said in a statement.

“First, China has indisputable sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao, consisting of Dongsha Qundao, Xisha Qundao, Zhongsha Qundao, and Nansha Qundao, and their adjacent waters, and has sovereign rights and jurisdiction over relevant waters,” he added.

Wang also reiterated previous claims that the South China Sea Arbitration award is “illegal, null and void,” and that China does not recognize it, and nor will accept claims or actions based on the award.

“Second, the Arbitral Tribunal in the South China Sea Arbitration violated the principle of state consent, exercised its jurisdiction ultra vires, and rendered an award in disregard of the law. This is a grave violation of UNCLOS and general international law. The award is illegal, null and void. China does not accept or recognize it, and will never accept any claim or action based on the award,” Wang added.

The official also said that the Philippines should stop “hyping up maritime disputes” and the “infringement of China’s sovereignty” and instead negotiate and consult with China for peace and stability in the region.

“We once again urge the Philippines to stop hyping up maritime disputes between China and the Philippines, stop its infringement of China’s sovereignty and provocation at sea, return to the right track of resolving maritime disputes through negotiation and consultation as soon as possible, and work with China to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea,” he said.

On Wednesday, the House of Representatives adopted a resolution that insisted that China is continuing its intrusion over Philippine territory in the West Philippine Sea.

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