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China firmly opposes Philippines' construction activities on Chinese islands, reefs: spokesman

China

China firmly opposes Philippines' construction activities on Chinese islands, reefs: spokesman
China

China

China firmly opposes Philippines' construction activities on Chinese islands, reefs: spokesman

2026-05-18 17:06 Last Updated At:20:37

China firmly opposes any construction activities by the Philippines on Chinese islands and reefs in the South China Sea illegally occupied by the Philippines, said Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, on Monday.

Jiang made the remarks at a press conference in Beijing in response to reports that satellite imagery showed the Philippines accelerating infrastructure construction on occupied Chinese islands and reefs in the Nansha Qundao, including upgrading illegal infrastructure there, besides planning to expand the shelter haven on the Mahuan Dao and extend the runway on the Zhongye Dao.

"China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Qundao and their adjacent waters. We firmly oppose the Philippine side carrying out construction activities on all illegally occupied Chinese islands and reefs, including the Zhongye Dao and Mahuan Dao. China will take necessary measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests," Jiang said.

China firmly opposes Philippines' construction activities on Chinese islands, reefs: spokesman

China firmly opposes Philippines' construction activities on Chinese islands, reefs: spokesman

Iran is in discussions with Oman on a transit mechanism for the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the country's Foreign Ministry said on Monday, highlighting its commitment to safe passage and regional stability.

The ministry's spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said that the Strait of Hormuz is an internationally important shipping route, and Iran has consistently sought to ensure its safe passage. Talks with Oman on the strait's transit arrangements are ongoing.

Baghaei emphasized that Iran holds no hostility toward any country in the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates, and urged all parties to stay alert to external attempts to sow division in the region.

He added that, although the United States declined to respond to Iran's proposal, indirect communication between Iran and the U.S. continues through Pakistan.

Iran talks with Oman on Strait of Hormuz transit mechanism

Iran talks with Oman on Strait of Hormuz transit mechanism

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