Zhao Lijian Photo: VCG

China and the Philippines are in communication concerning two Philippine supply boats which trespassed into the waters near Ren'ai Jiao of China’s Nansha Islands without China's consent, and the sea area is generally peaceful, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told a press conference on Thursday. 

The comments come after the Philippines’ top diplomat said that Chinese coast guard ships used water cannons on two Philippine supply boats. 

On Tuesday evening, two Philippine supply boats trespassed into the waters near Ren'ai Jiao of China's Nansha Islands without China's consent, Zhao said, noting that Chinese coast guard vessels performed their official duties in accordance with law and upheld China's territorial sovereignty and maritime order. 

At present, the sea area of Ren'ai Jiao is generally peaceful. China and the Philippines are communicating on this matter, Zhao told the conference.

Global Times