Respect Chinese sovereignty in South China Sea, Beijing warns Washington

BEIJING, Feb 28, 2019, SCMP. Beijing has accused Washington of “stirring up trouble” with its planned increase in naval operations in the disputed waters of the South China Sea, reported the South China Morning Post.

Defence ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang said China resolutely opposed the plan, describing it as a violation of its sovereignty and security, as well as reflecting “disregard for international laws and rules”.

“The Chinese military will take resolute measures to safeguard national sovereignty and security, and to safeguard peace and stability in the region,” Ren said in Beijing on Thursday.

“China has indisputable sovereignty over various islands in the South China Sea and its adjacent waters, and the current situation in the South China Sea is generally stable, thanks to the efforts made by China together with the Asean countries.

“We call on the US side to respect China’s sovereignty and security … and not to stir up trouble in the South China Sea.”

The United States has already conducted two freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea this year, with both actions triggering condemnation from Beijing.