Manila will harm itself if it acts as a reckless pawn for external forces

The Chinese government has always exercised restraint in handling its disputes with other countries in the South China Sea, advocating dialogue and negotiation to resolve differences.

However, this should not be interpreted as a weakness, or a sign that China will choose to back down when it comes to its sovereignty, territorial integrity and core interests. China will decisively take measures to counter provocative activities that undermine its territorial integrity or maritime rights and interests. That is why China released on Sunday the baselines for the territorial sea adjacent to Huangyan Island in the South China Sea in a bid to counter infringements by the Philippines.

In a solemn representation filed on Wednesday to the Philippine Foreign Ministry regarding Manila's signing of the "Philippine Maritime Zones Act "and the "Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act", Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian stated China's stance on Huangyan Island and territorial waters. He called it a necessary response to the Philippines' provocations and the Chinese government's normal move to strengthen maritime management in accordance with international law and practice.