July 31, 2020: China has strongly objected to Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell's comment on the South China Sea.

"Remarks by Australian High Commissioner to India on the South China sea disregards facts. China's territorial sovereignty, maritime rights and interests conform with international law," commented Sun Weidong, Chinese Ambassador to India.

He said "It's clear who safeguards peace and stability and who destabilizes and provokes escalation in the region."

Earlier, Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell expressed deep concern over "actions in South China Sea that are destabilising and could provoke escalation. Last week, Australia launched a note with UN Secy Gen refusing China’s unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea. We stated what we said following a 2016 tribunal which ruled against China’s claims. Australia rejects China’s claims to historic rights and internal waters."