Full coverage: The South China Sea Issue

Chinese Foreign Ministry responded to the US aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis's sailing in the South China Sea in the past.

Foreign Ministry spokesman said the US warship's move was not carrying out freedom of navigation in the region, but a military navigation. The spokesperson condemned such move, saying it is doing harm to China's sovereignty rights.

He also stressed China is always suggesting to resolve disputes peacefully, including China and other parties directly involved in relevant sovereignty disputes in the South China Sea.