China says Philippines forcibly occupied islands and reefs in Spratlys

From Ang Malaya (Apr 16): China says Philippines forcibly occupied islands and reefs in Spratlys

The Chinese government is calling on Philippine government to choose the path of strengthening ties with them after hearing report that President Aquino said the international community should fear China’s way of advancing claims in West Philippine Sea and the entire South China Sea.

“The Chinese side urges the Philippine side to respect China’s territorial sovereignty, honor its commitment made in bilateral political documents and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, return to the right track of resolving the disputes through direct negotiation and do more things that contribute to China-Philippines relations and regional peace and stability,” a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said.

The Chinese official also accused Philippines of forcibly occupying islands and reefs in Kalayaan (also known as Spratly, Nansha) group of islands since 1970s “which remains the crux and root of the South China Sea disputes between China and the Philippines.”

The spokesperson again said “China will stay committed to jointly safeguarding peace and stability of the South China Sea along with ASEAN countries.” However, action speaks louder than words.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2015/04/16/10247-china-says-philippines-forcibly-occupied-islands-and-reefs-in-spratlys