China's defense ministry said Ren'ai Reef in the Spratly Islands is Chinese
territory and that Beijing and the Philippines have reached a temporary
humanitarian-supply arrangement for the reef based on three principles. The
ministry warned any Philippine attempt to deliver construction materials or
build fixed facilities or permanent outposts will be resolutely blocked under
law and regulation. It demanded the Philippines promptly tow away the illegally
grounded vessel No.57 and cease all provocative actions, and said China will
firmly defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights while safeguarding
peace and stability in the South China Sea.
