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[Global Times-Global Network reporter Suo Yanqi] Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning hosted a regular press conference on August 20. At the meeting, a foreign media reporter asked: Regarding the collision between the Philippine and Chinese coast guard ships yesterday, the United States condemned China's actions in the South China Sea yesterday and reiterated its support for the Philippines. What is China's comment on this?

Mao Ning said, "Yesterday I have already stated China's solemn position on the Philippine Coast Guard ship's intrusion into the waters near Xianbin Reef in China's Nansha Islands. The Philippines violated the law first, and China has taken measures to safeguard its rights in accordance with the law to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. This is legitimate and beyond reproach."

Mao Ning said that the United States is not a party to the South China Sea issue and has no right to intervene in the maritime issues between China and the Philippines. It should not use the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty as an excuse to infringe on China's sovereignty and rights in the South China Sea. The United States should stop provoking confrontation in the South China Sea, and stop undermining regional stability and exacerbating tensions.