China urges Philippines not to hinder South China Sea code talks

China urged the Philippines on Friday not to 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 made the remarks at a regular news briefing after Manila said it would continue to push for an effective and legally binding Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, using the so-called arbitral award as its legal and policy foundation.

China has repeatedly made clear that the "award" is illegal, null and void, and non-binding, Mao said.

"China neither accepts nor recognizes the award, and will not accept any claim or action based on it," she said.

Mao said formulating a COC 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 the countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

China has remained committed to working with ASEAN countries to accelerate consultations and strive for the early conclusion of the COC, thereby jointly safeguarding peace and stability in the South China Sea, she said.

"The so-called award has nothing to do with the COC," Mao said. "The Philippines should not use the award to create obstacles to the conclusion of the COC."