Full coverage: South China Sea Is Indisputable Part of China
China has reiterated its sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and adjacent waters in the South China Sea, including the largest of the islands: Taiping Dao.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying was responding to media reports that the Philippines and an arbitration tribunal are attempting to characterize Taiping Dao as a "rock" other than an "island."
Hua said Chinese fishermen have resided on Taiping Dao for years, which proves that Taiping Dao is an "island" and is completely capable of sustaining human habitation. The spokesperson called the Philippines' move totally unacceptable, saying it violates international law.