Differences regarding the South China Sea should be properly managed and resolved through dialogue and consultation between states directly involved, while peace at sea should be jointly upheld by China and ASEAN members, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday.

Despite the turbulence in the world, peace and stability in South China Sea have been maintained thanks to the collective efforts of China and ASEAN members, which does not come by easily and should be cherished, he told a news conference.

China has been exercising restraint in maritime disputes and seeking solutions acceptable for all parties in a spirit of good neighborhoods and friendship and on the basis of respecting historical and legal facts, Wang said.

"Abusing our good faith should not be allowed, while distorting maritime laws cannot be accepted," Wang said.

In face of deliberate infringements, China will take justified actions to defend its legitimate rights in accordance with law, he said, adding that Beijing will also respond with legitimate countermeasures against unwarranted provocations.

China will work with ASEAN members to strive for an early conclusion of the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea and ensure that the South China Sea remains an area of peace and cooperation, he said.