Q: Was the South China Sea issue discussed at the fifth round of China-US Strategic and Economic Dialogue? Please brief us on the specifics.

A: China stated its principled position on the South China Sea issue at the fifth round of China-US Strategic and Economic Dialogue. The Chinese side emphasized that China stays committed to solving disputes through negotiations with countries directly concerned while resolutely safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. We hope that relevant countries could make good on its commitment to properly handle and solve relevant dispute through bilateral and friendly consultation. We say it and we do it.

The US said that it does not take sides on the South China Sea issue. China hopes that the US side could respect the facts and live up to what it says.