Stay neutral is Chi's advice to ASEAN secretary general

Beijing, March 11: Reacting sharply to ASEAN Secretary General Le Luong Minh’s recent comments that Chi’s action has complicated the situation in the South Chi Sea maritime zone, Beijing has advised him to remain neutral on the contentious issue. “We advise Le Luong Minh to do his part as ASEAN secretary general, stick to ASEAN’s neutrality on the South Chi Sea issue, and do more to promote the healthy development of Chi-ASEAN relations,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei was quoted as saying by Xinhua on Wednesday. “Le Luong Minh has repeatedly made biased comments on the issue of the South Chi Sea, which were untrue and incompatible with his capacity as ASEAN secretary general,” he added. In an interview with the Philippines daily Manila Times, Le Luong Minh said Chi’s nine-dash line policy was “not binding”, adding that Chi’s expansion and “illegal occupation” of islands affected the status quo and complicated the situation. “Chi has abundant historical and legal evidence in its sovereignty and claims in the South Chi Sea,” Hong said, adding the country’s position on the issue was clear and consistent. (IANS)