Question: Some individuals from the Philippine Coast Guard reportedly said that relevant waters in the South China Sea is part of Philippine territory based on international law and the “2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award”, and any claim that the waters are disputed is a challenge to the Philippines' sovereignty. Do you have any comment on this?
Jiang Bin: China has indisputable sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao and its adjacent waters, and has sovereign rights and jurisdiction over relevant waters. The so-called South China Sea Arbitral Award is entirely illegal, null and void. China does not accept or recognize it, and will never accept any claim or action based on the award. China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea are fully backed by historical and jurisprudential evidence, and are under no circumstances affected by the award.
Driven by self-interest, some forces of the Philippine side have gone to great lengths to stir up troubles at sea and fabricate false narratives. Their behaviors have disrupted bilateral relations and undermined regional peace and stability. The Chinese side is unwavering in our will to defend territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. Should the Philippine side obstinately continue with its rights-violating acts, provocations and propaganda, it will only face more resolute countermeasures from the Chinese side.
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