Ministry of Foreign Affairs: China does not accept or recognize the so-called arbitration case in the South China Sea
On July 12th, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin presided over a regular press conference.
A reporter asked that on July 12th, Philippine Foreign Minister Manaro issued a statement commemorating the 7th anniversary of the so-called award in the South China Sea arbitration case, stating that the arbitration award has become a part of international law and welcoming more and more countries to support the award. What is China's comment on this?
Wang Wenbin stated that China's position on the South China Sea arbitration case has been consistent, clear, and firm. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a special statement on July 12, 2016, stating that the arbitral tribunal violated the principle of state consent, conducted proceedings beyond its authority, made unjust judgments, and seriously violated the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and general international law. The award made was illegal and invalid. China does not accept or recognize this ruling, and does not accept any claims or actions based on this ruling.
Wang Wenbin pointed out that China's sovereignty and rights in the South China Sea have been formed through long-term historical practice, with sufficient historical and legal basis, and are not affected by illegal arbitration awards under any circumstances. The illegal arbitration award in the South China Sea has been widely questioned by the international community. Many international authoritative legal experts and scholars, including the former President of the International Court of Justice and former judges of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, have written articles pointing out the serious fallacy of the award, and even knowledgeable individuals in the Philippines have publicly pointed out the illegality and error of the award. The Chinese side's position on not accepting or recognizing the ruling has been supported and understood by more than 100 countries.
Wang Wenbin stated that China and ASEAN countries are fully and effectively implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, actively promoting consultations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. All parties have agreed to handle the South China Sea issue according to a dual track approach, that is, the directly involved countries will resolve maritime disputes through dialogue and consultation, and China and ASEAN countries will jointly maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea. We advise relevant parties to continue to properly handle maritime disputes through dialogue and consultation with China, and work together with regional countries to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.