U.S. commander's comments on South China Sea "lack historical common sense": Chinese DM spokesperson

The U.S. Pacific Commander Harry Harris' remarks on the South China Sea lack historical common sense as China's sovereignty over islands in the South China Sea and their adjacent waters have adequate historical and legal basis, a defense ministry spokesperson said Thursday in Beijing.

Yang Yujun, the ministry's spokesperson, was responding to Harris' remarks to a Washington think tank.

Speaking at the Center for Strategic and International Studies Wednesday, Harris said the United States will continue to challenge China's position on the South China Sea. He also said his personal view is that "those islands do not belong to China", according to media reports.

"Such remarks astonish me as they completely lack historical common sense," Yang said.

It is China's consistent stance to resolve disputes with countries directly related through negotiations and consultations. Peace and stability in the South China Sea should be safeguarded by China and ASEAN, he added.

"We do not need countries outside the region finger-pointing on this issue, let alone making any ignorant remarks," Yang said.

He added that it is inappropriate for Harris to take such an irresponsible personal view as the U.S. Pacific Commander.

"I would advise him to make a careful study of the history of the South China Sea issue before expressing any personal views at public occasions," Yang said. Endit