Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhu Bangzao January 11 said that China is deeply concerned about the Philippine military's expulsion of six Chinese fishing boats from waters around Huangyan Island a few days ago.

Answering a question at today's regular press conference, Zhu reiterated that Huangyan Island is an integral part of Chinese territory, saying that Chinese fishermen have engaged in normal fishing activities in the waters surrounding the island since ancient times.

"The action taken by the Philippine side has seriously hampered the peaceful productive activities of Chinese fishermen," Zhu said.

Zhu expressed "strong concern" over the matter on behalf of the Chinese government.