Reuters: This weekend is the 10th anniversary of the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s findings that concluded that China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea were not valid under international law. The Philippines said today that it would continue to pursue a South China Sea code of conduct, but using the court’s findings as an “unshakable” basis. Do you have any comment?

Mao Ning: China has repeatedly stated that the “award” is illegal, null and void, and non-binding. China neither accepts nor recognizes the “award,” and will never accept any claim or action arising from it. 

China and ASEAN countries all agreed to formulate a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC). This is part and parcel of implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC). China is committed to working with ASEAN countries to accelerate the COC consultations for its early conclusion and keep the South China Sea peaceful and stable. The “award” has absolutely no relevance to the COC. The Philippines must not obstruct the COC process with the phony “award.”