China denounces G7 interference in its sea issues

BEIJING -- China strongly denounced the communique released after a G7 summit, saying it interfered in the East China Sea and South China Sea issues in the guise of international law, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said early Sunday.

The 2017 G7 summit concluded with a joint communique Saturday, saying the G7 members are committed to "maintaining a rules-based order in the maritime domain based on the principles of international law", and expressing concerns about the situation in the East China Sea and South China Sea.

China's position on the East China Sea and South China Sea issues is clear and consistent, said Lu.

China has been committed to properly handling disputes, cementing cooperation, and safeguarding peace and stability of the East China Sea and South China Sea through talks and consultations directly with related parties, he said.

Lu urged G7 and countries outside to understand the situation, stick to the pledge to take no position on relevant disputes, fully respect the efforts made by countries in the region to handle disputes, and stop making irresponsible remarks.