Beijing Rejects US Criticism over Construction in South China Sea
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - China rejected US criticism concerning construction work, which is taking place on a series of disputed islands in South China Sea. Beijing says its presence is a peaceful one and is merely “improving the functions of the relevant islands and reefs.”
“The situation in the South China Sea is on the whole peaceful and stable, and there has never been an issue with the freedom of navigation,” said Admiral Sun Jianguo, the deputy chief of the general staff department in the People's Liberation Army, during a summit in Singapore on Sunday.
He added that Chinese authorities have carried out construction on some of the islands in the South China Sea “mainly for the purpose of improving the functions of the relevant islands and reefs, and the working and living conditions of personnel stationed there.”
The highly disputed Spratly Islands are a group of more than 750 reefs, islets and islands in the South China Sea. China claims the vast majority of the sea, despite being involved in territorial disputes with the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Brunei and Malaysia.
"Apart from meeting the necessary defense needs, it is more geared to better perform China's international responsibilities and obligations regarding maritime search and rescue, disaster prevention and relief, maritime scientific research, meteorological observation, environmental protection, safety of navigation, fishery production, services,” said Sun.
According to the Chinese military official, Beijing has always “kept in mind the larger interest of maritime security" when dealing with “maritime disputes with relevant neighboring countries.”
"In spite of the sufficient historical and legal evidence and its indisputable claims, rights and interests, China has exercised enormous restraint, making positive contributions to peace and stability of the region and the world at large," Sun added.
The statement from Chinese military official comes in response to a statement from US Defense Secretary Ash Carter who said on Saturday that Beijing is threatening security in the Pacific, RT reported.
