At a regular press conference on January 13, in response to an inquiry regarding reports that the Philippines said a protest had been lodged over the presence of China Coast Guard, militia and navy in its "exclusive economic zone," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China’s sovereignty and rights in the South China Sea were established in the long course of history, they are solidly grounded in history and the law, and are consistent with international law and practices.

Guo said at the press conference that China Coast Guard’s patrols and law enforcement activities in relevant waters are lawful, justified and beyond reproach. China calls on the Philippines to stop the malicious accusations.

(Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China)