Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Comment on Philippine National Security Council Spokesperson's statement

Reuters: I noted two points made by the Philippine National Security Council Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya during today’s press conference. First, Malaya said there was a growing consensus within the Philippine government on the need to file a case against China over the destruction of coral reefs, including the harvesting of endangered giant clams, in the South China Sea. Second, Malaya also commented on the regulations released by China Coast Guard last week, saying that China had no authority over the high seas and the latest regulations went contrary to international law. What’s China’s comment?

Wang Wenbin: On your first question, I noted earlier media reports saying that according to some in the Philippines, large amounts of coral reefs surrounding Zhongye Dao are severely degraded, the damage is man-made, and the only suspect is China. Let me make it very clear, China has indisputable sovereignty over Nansha Qundao, including Zhongye Dao, and the adjacent waters. The Philippines illegally occupied China’s Zhongye Dao and has carried out frequent activities in the adjacent waters of Zhongye Dao. If any environmental degradation appears in those waters, it is the Philippines who needs to reflect on its behavior, instead of wrongly accusing China.

On your second question, the regulations are rolled out by China Coast Guard to standardize the administrative law-enforcement procedures of Coast Guard agencies and better uphold order at sea. It is consistent with universal practices. Individuals and entities have no need for concern as long as they have not done anything illicit.