(VOVworld) - China's Vice Chief of Staff of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), Sun Jianguo, told the 14th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that China is pursuing a consistent policy of a responsible nation following international laws.
China's Vice Chief of Staff of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), Sun Jianguo, at the plenary session of the 14th Asia-Pacific Security Summit, in Singapore, on May 31, 2015 (AFP Photo/Roslan Rahman) |
In his statement in response to the US Defense Secretary’s demand on May 30th that China stop its reclamation work in the East Sea, Sun said China has carried out construction on some islands and reefs in the East Sea mainly for the purpose of improving the functions of the relevant islands and reefs, and the working and living conditions of personnel stationed there. He added that apart from meeting the necessary defence needs, it is more geared to better perform China's international responsibilities and obligations regarding maritime search and rescue, disaster prevention and relief, maritime scientific research, meteorological observation, environmental protection, safety of navigation, fishery production, and services.
Answering questions relating to the East Sea issue, Sun said "the situation in the East Sea is on the whole peaceful and stable, and there has never been an issue with the freedom of navigation. China has practiced restraint to ensure maritime security and safety, contributing to global peace and stability."
The Chinese representative said China, like other countries, consider the UN principles the key to maintain peace. China called on countries to improve trust and find a common way to resolve differences.
Sun avoided answering direct questions on China’s transportation of weapons to reclaimed islands and its reclamation work in the East Sea.