Wen says China focuses on peace, stability, free navigation in South China Sea

PHNOM PENH, Nov. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said here on Tuesday that China lays emphasis on the peace, stability, free navigation and security in the South China Sea.

Speaking at the seventh East Asia Summit, Wen said China's stance on the South China Sea issue is clear and persistent, and the free navigation and security are fully guaranteed in the sea.

China hopes that the international sea lanes across the South China Sea be more fully used as the world economy recovers, he said.