FM press conference on July 12 (3)

Q: US President Barack Obama hoped that China could solve its maritime disputes with its neighbors peacefully. What is China's response?

A: China stated its principled position on the South China Sea issue at the fifth round of China-US Strategic and Economic Dialogue. The Chinese side emphasized that China stays committed to solving disputes through negotiations with countries directly concerned while resolutely safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. We hope that relevant country could make good on its commitment to properly handle and solve relevant dispute through bilateral and friendly consultation. We say it and we do it.

The US said that it does not take sides in the South China Sea issue. China hopes that the US side could respect the facts and live up to what it says.

Hua Chunying announced at the end of the press conference that according to the past practice, the regular press conference of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will adjourn from Monday, July 15 to Friday, August 30 for the summer break and resume on Monday, September 2. During the adjournment, journalists can raise questions to the Spokesperson's Office by telephone and fax. Wish all the journalists a happy summer vacation.