Manila's troublemaking

Updated: 2012-03-01 08:04

(China Daily)

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At a time when the relevant countries have been pulling together to push forward the implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and tensions in the area have generally eased, the Philippines has chosen once again to be a troublemaker.

The Philippines should assume direct responsibility for the fresh flare-up of the South China Sea issue, as the Philippine government has invited major foreign oil companies to invest in exploration in 15 offshore oil and gas areas in the South China Sea. The Philippines should bear in mind that a number of the 15 areas are under Chinese maritime jurisdiction and it does not have the right to invite foreign enterprises to bid for service contracts there.

China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and adjacent waters and it is unlawful for any country or company to explore oil and gas in areas under Chinese jurisdiction without the permission of the Chinese government.

Unfortunately, China's protests seem to be falling on deaf ears and the Philippines seems intent on following its own course, despite the fact that last July, China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations adopted an agreement on the Guidelines on the Implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

China has always tried to bear in mind the overall situation and made efforts to promote cooperation with other South China Sea countries to find a peaceful solution to the disputes.

But if any country thinks it can take advantage of China's desire to maintain peace and stability in the region, which benefits all countries, and attempts to encroach on China's legitimate interests, they will be sorely disappointed.

China will steadfastly safeguard its territorial sovereignty.

It will take time to achieve a peaceful resolution to the South China Sea disputes and all parties must gradually build up mutual trust through pragmatic cooperation. This will lay the groundwork for further negotiations.

The Philippines should refrain from moves that complicate or aggravate the disputes, adhere to the spirit of the declaration and make determined efforts to promote peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Those that make irresponsible unilateral actions will only eat the bitter fruit of their own behavior in the end.

(China Daily 03/01/2012 page8)