China urges Manila not to exacerbate situation

BEIJING - China on Monday urged the Philippines not to exacerbate the current situation in the South China Sea.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remark at a regular press briefing while commenting on the establishment of a Philippine kindergarten on Zhongye Island in the South China Sea.

Hong said China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and its adjacent waters. The country opposes any illegal activity that may infringe on China's sovereignty, he said.

Hong said he hopes relevant countries will abide by the spirit of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

Asked whether Chinese ships have withdrawn from Huangyan Island, Hong said tensions around the island are easing, and Chinese government ships maintain jurisdiction and vigilance over the areas around Huangyan Island.