China on Sunday rejected US criticism of its claims over the disputed South China Sea saying they were based on “history and protected by international law” and asked Washington to play a constructive role in promoting peace in the region.
“China’s maritime rights in the South China Sea are formed by history and protected by the international law,” foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said refuting US assertions that Beijing’s claims were inconsistent with the international law.Noting that some US officials’ remarks in congressional testimony are not constructive, Hong urged the US to take a rational and fair attitude towards the issue, and play a constructive role to promote peace and stability in the region.
Daniel Russel, top US diplomat for East Asia, had said in congressional testimony on Wednesday that China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea do not comply with international law and should be clarified or adjusted.
Pingback: South China Sea / West Philippine Sea Dispute Timeline - I am Sam Galope