The Philippines’ arbitration case against China has created significant debate about the South China Sea issue. For some in depth discussion, I am now joined in the studio by Mr Teng Jianqun, from the China Institute of International Studies -- and by CCTV senior report Han Bin. Welcome to the show.

Q1: China and the Philippines have fundamentally different interpretations of the issue of sovereignty and international law.  They also pursue different courses in settling the dispute.  Why does China believe negotiation is the only solution?  How effective can negotiations be considering the divisions? 

Q2: You travelled to the disputed area many times and have seen first hand China's activities there.  What do your experiences tell us about China's sovereignty claims and management of the waters?  And how do they tie in with China's latest statement?

Q3: The verdict of the arbitration is due to be announced soon.  China has repeatedly said it will not accept the ruling. Is the arbitration's decision binding?  Does Beijing have any legal grounds to ignore it?

Q4: China does not accept third party dispute settlement procedures in the South China Sea.  But there always seems to be a third party involved in this bilateral confrontation.  Given the increasing complexity in these waters, will China and the Philippines be able to eventually settle the issue on their own?