Full coverage: South China Sea Is Indisputable Part of China

Chinese Rear Admiral, Guan Youfei, director of the Foreign Affairs Office of China's national defense ministry, said China considers the Philippine case illegal. He made the remarks at a conference of Defense Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan.

"China has taken a clear stance on the South China Sea issue, especially the arbitration case unilaterally initiated by the Philippines. The arbitration is a political provocation under the cloak of the law. This case is illegal without any basis. China firmly opposes the act and adheres to the solemn position of non-acceptance and non-recognition of the arbitration. We have reaffirmed the stance on all occasions,"

"China's stance has been supported during a foreign ministers' meeting at Shanghai Cooperation Organization. It is also widely accepted by the international community. We think this farce directed by certain countries will not succeed," said Guan. 

During the SCO foreign ministers' meeting in May, China's foreign minister Wang Yi reiterated Beijing's determination to safeguard its sovereign waters. He said he is confident in the international community's sense of justice and righteousness concerning the matter. The SCO issued a statement in May saying all members agreed and supported China's efforts to safeguard peace and stability in the region. It is the second international group, after the Arab League, to support China's stance on the issue.