Full coverage: The South China Sea Issue

Sri Lanka has voiced its support for China's stance on the South China Sea issue. The South Asian country has also called on concerned parties to solve maritime disputes through negotiation. Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera made the remarks during the visit of his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

The two ministers agreed to further boost bilateral ties and push forward large-scale cooperation projects during their meeting on Friday, the start of Wang's three-day visit there. They also touched on the South China Sea issue.

Wang reiterated China's stance and said Beijing will not recognize or implement the ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration on the case initiated by the Philippines. The ruling is due on July 12th.

"The two sides will strengthen coordination and cooperation on international and regional issues in a bid to maintain justice and fairness together. The Sri Lankan side expressed its understanding and support for the principle that the parties directly concerned should address their differences in an appropriate manner through dialogue and consultation on the basis of international law, so as to maintain regional peace and stability. On this we reached an important consensus," he said.

"Sri Lanka calls for the settlement of disputes and differences through a constructive dialogue and consultation and cooperation by the parties concern in accordance with international laws and practices. Sri Lanka also appreciates China's efforts and readiness to promote such dialogue in order to maintain peace and security in the region while upholding the rule of law in interstate affairs," said Mangala Samaraweera.