Beijing 'consistent' on S. China Sea: FM

BEIJING - Freedom of navigation in the South China Sea "has never been a problem" and related countries should do more to protect peace and stability in the region, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said on Wednesday.

Hong made the remarks in response to the United States' latest claim that China remains "aggressive" to vessels conducting oil and gas exploration in disputed waters in the South China Sea.

According to the Associated Press, Admiral Robert Willard, head of the US Pacific Command, said on Tuesday that the American military must be present in the South China Sea to ensure the security of the sea lanes crucial to international trade.