A Chinese envoy to the United Nations on Friday refuted unjustified accusations by the Philippines over China's land-filling activities in the South China Sea.
"The Meeting of States Parties to UNCLOS is not the venue to discuss the South China Sea issue. Nonetheless, one country just now made unwarranted accusations against China in its statement. I cannot but respond," China's deputy permanent representative to the UN Wang Min said.
He said that China's construction activities on the islands and reefs are directed in the Chinese territory, which makes it within the scope of China's sovereignty. He stressed that it is legal, justified and reasonable.
"That country" talked at length about the South China Sea issue at this meeting with a clear purpose to deceive the international community and pressure China into making compromises on issues concerning its sovereignty and territorial integrity, he said.
Wang continued by saying that the dispute should be solved through dialogue and consultation in order to maintain peace and stability.
