The Chinese foreign ministry has asked Japan not to meddle in China-Philippine relations. This was in response to Japanese media reports that Japan's government urged the Philippines to uphold an arbitral award on a South China Sea territorial dispute with China.

"Relations between China and the Philippines have been improving. The South China Sea disputes are also back on the track of bilateral dialogue. This is in line with the interests of both, and beneficial to regional peace and stability," said Hua Chunying, spokesperson, Chinese Foreign Ministry.

"I think we all know why Japan is trying so hard to intervene in this issue. We urge Japan to stop sowing discord among countries, and to play a real, constructive role in safeguarding regional stability.“”