On the afternoon of March 14th, Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, released a statement regarding recent military related issues.

Reporter: According to reports, the Philippine Defense Minister stated that China's aggressive behavior in the disputed waters is the biggest threat to Philippine national security. The Philippines will work with security allies to counter any "aggressive attempts" by China and take measures to counter any attempts by China to establish air defense zones or restrict freedom of flight in the South China Sea. What is the spokesperson's comment on this?

Zhang Xiaogang: China has indisputable sovereignty over the South China Sea Islands and their adjacent waters, and has sovereign rights and jurisdiction over relevant waters. China has always been committed to maintaining regional peace and stability. In fact, there has never been any issue with freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea. But the Philippines has repeatedly violated and provoked China's rights, and some countries outside the region continue to stir up trouble, causing unrest in the South China Sea. China's determination to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights is unwavering, and there are also abundant options in its toolbox. We advise the Philippine side not to misjudge the situation, immediately give up futile risks and provocations, and truly return to the correct track of resolving differences through dialogue.