Related reading:
China has refuted claims that its island building in the South China Sea will 'militarize' the area.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying made the comments after U.S. and Australian Defense and Foreign Ministers expressed concern during their annual meeting.
Hua urged relevant countries to adhere to an objective and impartial stance over the issue.
"We hope that relevant countries can stop hyping up the South China Sea issue, abide by their commitments of not taking sides on territorial issues, speak and act cautiously, respecting the efforts by China and relevant countries to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea and play a constructive role."
She added that China's construction work serves mostly civilian purposes, helping deliver on international responsibilities and obligations and providing public good.
Hua says the lighthouses, which went into operation on Huayang and Chigua reefs last Saturday, have significantly improved maritime navigational safety in the South China Sea.
中国公共新闻网摘编:GAN JADE |