Beijing has been constructive in handling ties with Hanoi and Manila despite their recent maritime claims in South China Sea

The United States has termed the establishment of Sansha city in Hainan province by China to administer Nansha, Xisha and Zhongsha islands an "unhelpful" act. This unfair and unhelpful remark of the US is regrettable.

For ages, China has explored and tapped the entire aforementioned areas in the South China Sea and successive Chinese governments have ruled over various parts of the islands and waters for more than 10 centuries. It is on this basis that the Chinese government officially reiterated its sovereignty over the islands and waters, along with Dongsha Islands, in the 20th century.