China has deplored the recent statement of Foreign Minister Payne on the South China Sea issue calling on Australian government to stop any political manipulation.
Foreign Minister Marise Payne in her statement on Monday remarked that Five years ago, Arbitral Tribunal reached a clear and unanimous decision on the South China Sea and called on the parties to the arbitration to abide by the Tribunal’s decision, which is final and binding on both China and the Philippines.
Contradicting the remarks of Ms Payne, a Chinese embassy spokesperson Tuesday said that China’s sovereignty, rights and interests in the South China Sea have been formed in the course of a long history supported by abundant historical and legal basis and upheld by the Chinese government all along.
“The South China Sea arbitration violated the principle of state consent. The arbitral tribunal exercised its jurisdiction ultra vires and rendered an award in disregard of law”, spokesperson said.
Spokesperson made it clear that the arbitration has major fallacies in fact-finding and application of law and violates UNCLOS and international law. The award of the arbitration is illegal, null and void. China does not accept or participate in the arbitration, nor does it accept or recognize the award.
“China and countries concerned have effectively managed differences through dialogue and consultation. China firmly protects the friendly, cooperative relations with regional countries, and firmly safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea”, spokesperson added.
Spokesperson urged the Australian side to view the historical merits and facts of the South China Sea issue in an objective manner and stop any political manipulation.
