Spokesman Lu Kang made the remarks at a daily press briefing in response to claims that the Philippines initiated arbitration due to the two…

Spokesman Lu Kang made the remarks at a daily press briefing in response to claims that the Philippines initiated arbitration due to the two countries' very unequal strengths which makes it unable to solve maritime delimitation disputes with China through dialogue

"Such an argument confuses right and wrong and reminds us of the so-called theory of original sin of major powers," said Lu

Calling the rhetoric "obviously from those who attempt to smear China," Lu said the logic behind the rhetoric is that "a strong nation is bound to seek hegemony."

China adheres to the path of peaceful development and follows a national defense policy that is defensive in nature. China persists in building good-neighborly relationships and partnerships with its neighbors and in solving disputes through dialogue and negotiation, said Lu

Since the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, China has successfully solved boundary issues with 12 of its 14 land neighbors via consultation in accordance with historical facts, on the basis norms of international law. The entire length of demarcated and delineated boundary has reached 20,000 kilometers, which accounts for 90 percent of China's total land boundary. Another example is that China and Vietnam delineated the maritime boundary in the Beibu Gulf via negotiations, Lu said

China knows its responsibility and obligation to safeguard regional peace and stability, said Lu

Stressing that China has dealt with the South China Sea issue in a constructive way, Lu said the door for dialogue has always been open

However, the Philippines, disregard of the consensus reached with China, shows no sincerity in solving the South China Sea issue through dialogue and "pretends to be a victim," said the spokesman, accusing Manila of stirring up trouble and aggravating the situation

When asked to comment on former U.S. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel's recent remarks, Lu said some people choose to turn a blind eye to basic facts about the South China Sea issue and wantonly manipulated international law. According to reports, Hagel said it would be "dangerous" for either side to disobey a decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration

Lu said China's position of non-acceptance and non-participation in the arbitration unilaterally initiated by the Philippines is clear and consistent

Using the international law when convenient and abandoning it in unfavorable conditions gravely undermine the authority, solemnity and effectiveness of the international law, said Lu. "This is a dangerous act that the international community must heighten vigilance against"