Foreign Ministry: Philippines 'creating tensions'

China's Foreign Ministry has condemned the Philippines' recent comments about the South China Sea and reiterated China's determination to safeguard its sovereignty and interests there.
The statement came after the Philippines said it welcomed the US plan to send military aircraft and ships to the South China Sea.
Philippine authorities have said they will give the US planes access to their nearby military bases during the operation.
Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying on Wednesday said China was extremely concerned about the US plan and that the Philippines' moves were creating tensions.
"Some people in the Philippines are jumping very high and are echoing some people in some countries to actively exaggerate the China threat, creating tensions in the region. This theatrical double act has grabbed much attention, but as everyone can see, the current situation in the South China Sea is stable," Hua said.
"China and most ASEAN countries are devoted to solving the South China Sea disputes through a "dual-track"approach and maintaining the navigational freedom, as well as the peace and stability of the region. The Philippine side is ignoring the common interests of countries in the region and continuing to take provocative measures that complicate and expand the dispute."
"I want to reiterate China's stance that it is determined to safeguard its national sovereignty and legitimate rights and interests. We will respond firmly to any acts of provocation against China."