The Philippines should not use the so-called "award on the South China Sea arbitration" to create obstacles to the conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a press briefing in Beijing on Friday.
"China has repeatedly stated that the 'award' is illegal, null and void, and non-binding. China neither accepts nor recognizes the 'award', and will never accept any claim or action arising from it," said Mao.
"Formulating the code of conduct in the South China Sea is an important step in implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and represents an important consensus between China and ASEAN countries. China is committed to working with ASEAN countries to accelerate the COC consultations for its early conclusion and keep the South China Sea peaceful and stable. The 'award' has absolutely no relevance to the COC. The Philippines must not obstruct the COC process with the phony 'award'," said Mao.
Philippines must not hinder South China Sea code talks: spokeswoman
Philippines must not hinder South China Sea code talks: spokeswoman
