China opposes Vietnam's move on Nansha
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2004-03-25 16:47

China has lodged solemn representation with Vietnam over its attempt to open a tourist route to Nansha islands and launch tourist activities in the upcoming April, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said in Beijing on Thursday.

Kong Quan said in response to a journalist's question that China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha islands and surrounding waters and the move taken by Vietnam has infringed on China's territorial sovereignty.

It was reported that Vietnam was ready to open "a tourist route" by boat to the Nansha islands and launch the first tourist activity in the upcoming April.

Kong said it is the important consensus and common responsibility of all relevant countries in the region to maintain stability in the South China Sea.

"We hope relevant countries honor the consensus and respect the principles set forth in the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea between China and the Association of Southeastern Asian Nations (ASEAN)," he said.

Kong also urged relevant sides to correct the wrongdoing, avoid taking any act that may lead to further complication of the situation there and make concrete efforts to maintain stability in the South China Sea.