China hits back at G7: Stop making irresponsible remarks

MANILA, Philippines – China on Tuesday voiced its dissatisfaction over the statement of foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized countries who have expressed concern over the South China Sea dispute.

"We urge the G7 member states to fully respect the efforts made by countries in the region, stop making irresponsible remarks and all irresponsible actions, and truly play a constructive role for regional peace and stability," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said.

The G7 - composed of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States - recently released a joint statement on maritime security.

READ: G7 ministers oppose 'provocative actions' in South China Sea

Lu, however, said that the G7 should have focused on global economic governance and cooperation instead of hyping up disputes in the East and South China Seas.

"We urge the G7 member states to honor their commitment of not taking sides on issues involving territorial disputes," Lu said.

The spokesperson stressed that China's stand on the disputed waters is consistent, which is to resolve disputes with countries through negotiations in accordance with international law on the basis of respecting historical facts.

Lu added that China is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the disputed waters while maintaining its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

The Philippines earlier filed an arbitration case against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration, being the first country to challenge its nine-dash line claim over the South China Sea.