Ministry of National Defense: Absolutely will not allow any plots to succeed in causing chaos in the South China Sea

On the afternoon of February 28, Major General Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, issued a statement regarding recent military-related issues.
Reporter: According to reports, recently the Philippines, the United States, Japan, and Australia have conducted so-called “joint patrols” near Huangyan Island in the sea and airspace. The strategic dialogue between the U.S. and the Philippines states that China’s activities in the South China Sea have a negative impact on regional peace and stability, as well as on the Indo-Pacific and even broader regional economies. What is your comment on this?
Zhang Xiaogang: Foreign countries like the U.S. coming to the South China Sea from afar to show off their military strength and deliberately stir up trouble are the sources of tension; the Philippines, relying on foreign powers to cause disturbances and stirring up waves, constantly infringe upon China’s rights and provoke conflicts, damaging the common interests of regional countries. They are unequivocally troublemakers and peace destroyers.
China has indisputable sovereignty over the islands in the South China Sea and the adjacent waters, as well as sovereignty rights and jurisdiction over related sea areas. China’s normal activities within its territorial waters and taking necessary measures to safeguard sovereignty and rights are legitimate, justified, professional, and restrained, and beyond reproach.
The Chinese military always maintains a high state of alert, resolutely counteracts any infringement or provocation, and will never allow any schemes to disrupt peace and stability in the South China Sea to succeed. We are committed to maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea. (Xinhua News Agency)