Foreign and Military Affairs

Rocking boat in South China Sea benefits none: FM

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-06-07 14:11

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi (center) attends the 10th Asia-Europe Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Godollo, Hungary, June 6, 2011. [Photo/Xinhua]

GODOLLO, Hungary  -- Any attempt to complicate the situation in the South China Sea conforms to no side's interests, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said here Monday.

Yang made the remarks at the 10th Asia-Europe Foreign Ministers' Meeting, held under the theme of "Working Together on Non-Traditional Security Challenges."

He said for those who respect the fact, the situation in the South China Sea is stable, and maritime security and freedom of navigation and overflight are obvious reality.

The attempts to complicate the situation there run contrary to the will of international community, particularly the countries in the region, Yang said.

Meanwhile, Yang called on countries in Asia and Europe to strengthen mutual trust and cooperation so as to jointly safeguard regional peace and stability, promote sustainable development and cope with non-traditional security issues.

Asia has witnessed rapid development in recent years thanks to the wisdom of and cooperation among countries in the region, Yang noted.

They should properly handle their differences and safeguard their common interests, he added.

Yang also said that peace and stability serve as the prerequisite for development, the basis for the people's welfare and the primary task of all the governments.

Yang urged all countries to solve international disputes through peaceful means including holding dialogue and consultation, and to abide by the goals and principles of the UN Charter.

It is also necessary to give full play to the central role of the United Nations in maintaining international peace, promoting common development and boosting international cooperation, he said.

Moreover, the minister said countries should jointly deal with the challenges brought by climate change while insisting on the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities."

He urged developed countries to carry out their commitments on financial aid, technology transfer, debt relief and market access.

Yang also expounded China's stances on some regional and international issues such as UN Security Council reform and the situation in West Asia and North Africa.