MANILA, Philippines – A Chinese diplomat at the United Nations (UN) lashed back at the Philippines’ criticism of its massive reclamation in the South China Sea, saying Manila has a “clear purpose to deceive the international community.”

China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN Wang Min took exception to statements from the Philippine ambassador to the world body against Beijing’s reclamation work in disputed waters.

At a meeting at the UN Headquarters in New York on Friday, June 12, Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN Lourdes Yparraguirre said that China’s artificial island-building is a form of “intimidation, coercion or force.”

Wang responded by calling the Philippine statements “unwarranted accusations.” He insisted that China will continue with its reclamation work despite protests from “that country.”

Read more: http://www.rappler.com/nation/96361-china-un-philippines-reclamation