December 7

Geng Shuang, the then China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, gave a stern response at the 76th Session of the UN General Assembly to the erroneous remarks made by the Philippine representative on the South China Sea issue. He pointed out that the "South China Sea Arbitration" was unilaterally initiated by the Philippines, the "Arbitral Tribunal" exercised jurisdiction beyond its authority and rendered an unjust ruling, and the resulting "Award" is null, void and has no binding force. China does not accept or participate in the arbitration, does not accept or recognize the so-called "Award," and does not accept any claims or actions based on it. He also called on the Philippine side to adhere to resolving disputes through negotiation and consultation.

China's position on the South China Sea issue has been consistent and clear. China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea are based on ample historical and legal grounds. China has always been committed to properly managing differences and peacefully resolving disputes through negotiation and consultation.